Council is in talks with electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Tesla to provide EV charging stations in the Blue Mountains.
At a recent meeting, Council endorsed plans to enter a licence agreement with Tesla for the installation of six charging stations at a Council owned car park in Blaxland.
The agreement aligns with Council's strategic vision to support a more sustainable future for the region and to support tourism, by encouraging visitors with EVs as their uptake increases.
"As a world class tourist destination and one that's committed to green values, we need to make it possible for EV owners to visit the Blue Mountains and providing EV charging stations is crucial to this," Mayor Mark Greenhill said.
"EVs can protect our natural environment with less air and noise pollution than ordinary vehicles. With Tesla charging stations at the foot of the Blue Mountains, we are committing to a greener future."
Blue Mountains Chief Executive Officer Dr Rosemary Dillon said: "Supporting and encouraging electric vehicle uptake is in line with our goal of being a clean, sustainable City. As electric vehicle technology advances and becomes more affordable, we need to support our communities in the uptake of sustainable innovation."
Based on Tesla's site analysis and due diligence, the car park at Hope Street in Blaxland was selected from four potential locations. Tesla is proposing to convert six parking spaces into 'supercharging bays' powered from an existing transformer at this car park.
With Tesla's estimated EV market share at 70 per cent in Australia, and based on other Tesla charging sites, it is anticipated there will be around 700 uses per month, providing a significant boost to the local economy. With the popularity of EVs on the increase, this is expected to rise.
There will be no extra cost and responsibility for Council as Tesla will own, operate and maintain the charging stations. The proposed licence agreement term is 15 years, including a five-year term with two five-year extension periods.
Under the licence agreement, Tesla will be responsible for its own maintenance costs, power supply, customer support and ongoing electricity costs and meter installation.
The licence agreement with Tesla has been thoroughly reviewed by Council staff and after issues raised, additional clause items have been included and this is currently under review by Tesla.
Once endorsed, the licence agreement will be finalised and reviewed by Council's legal representative before notifying businesses and residents in Blaxland.
Photo: Mayor Mark Greenhill in Blaxland near where the Tesla charging stations would be installed.
