The Victorian Government has made a significant commitment to bolstering the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the state. With an investment of $2.2 million, the government has greenlit four innovative electric-car charging projects. These projects aim to install 214 new electric-vehicle chargers across 116 sites throughout Victoria. This initiative is a part of the government’s broader strategy to promote the adoption of electric vehicles and to reduce carbon emissions.
The projects are not just about expanding the number of chargers; they are also about innovation and community engagement. One of the projects will introduce four transportable stand-alone solar-powered battery and electric-vehicle chargers. These chargers can be relocated to popular holiday destinations during peak seasons like summer, offering convenience for EV owners who are traveling. This approach ensures that the charging infrastructure is not only extensive but also flexible and responsive to the needs of the community.
Tesla, the US electric-car giant, is also making strides in Australia’s EV charging infrastructure. The company has expanded its Supercharger network to include electric vehicles from rival manufacturers. Initially, Tesla had five Supercharger locations that supported all electric cars equipped with a CCS fast-charging socket. Now, the company has added 25 more locations, bringing the total to 30 out of 63 in Australia. This expansion benefits every jurisdiction except Tasmania and the Northern Territory.
The Superchargers come in two versions: V2, capable of delivering up to 120kW, and V3, capable of up to 250kW. For non-Tesla drivers, the cost is 79 cents per kilowatt-hour, but this can be reduced to 66 cents per kilowatt-hour with a $9.99/month subscription. Tesla vehicle owners are charged between 58 and 70 cents per kilowatt-hour, depending on the location. This pricing strategy aims to make EV charging more accessible and affordable, encouraging more people to switch to electric vehicles.
Another groundbreaking initiative in Victoria involves mounting 100 electric-car chargers on street light poles across three inner-city council areas. This ingenious approach aims to maximise the use of existing infrastructure while expanding the charging network. The project is expected to be a game-changer for urban EV owners who often struggle with finding convenient charging locations.
In addition to street light chargers, 10 outlets will be installed in an apartment complex car park. This move aligns with the new requirements under the National Construction Code 2022, which mandates charging ports for every single car space in new apartment blocks. This initiative is particularly significant for urban dwellers who may not have access to private garages, offering them a practical solution for daily charging.
Victoria is also investing in smart charging technology. The fourth project involves installing 100 smart connected chargers for homes and businesses across the state. These smart chargers can detect surplus energy from rooftop solar panels and divert it to charge electric vehicles. This initiative is a win-win for both the environment and consumers, as it encourages the use of renewable energy while providing a cost-effective charging solution.
The smart chargers are not just about efficiency; they are also about integration. By connecting these chargers to a centralized system, it becomes easier to manage energy distribution and optimise charging times. This level of control can help to balance the electrical grid, especially during peak hours, making the entire system more sustainable and resilient.
Both the Victorian Government and Tesla have set ambitious targets for the adoption of electric vehicles. By 2030, Victoria aims for 50% of all new car sales to be electric, with a goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2045. The government’s investment in innovative charging infrastructure is a significant step toward achieving these targets.
Tesla’s expansion of its Supercharger network is also a significant move. By opening up its network to other brands, Tesla is not only increasing the utility of its own infrastructure but also facilitating the broader adoption of electric vehicles. This strategy aligns with Tesla’s mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy and sets a precedent for other companies and governments to follow.
