New electric vehicle (EV) chargers continue to come online across Canberra thanks to funding from the ACT Government.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the new DC fast chargers are now operational in Calwell, Curtin, Jamison Plaza, Braddon and Hobart Place in the City.
"The new DC fast chargers in these areas brings the total amount of public chargers in the ACT to 170, which means we are well on track in reaching our goal of 180 by 2025," Minister Rattenbury said.
"It's exciting to see more fast chargers installed in areas we know have been asking for more infrastructure, and it's great we've been able to see the rollout progress throughout the Territory with more chargers in the north, the south, and the inner city.
"Government funding continues to support the rollout of a mix of DC fast chargers and slower AC chargers. This gives the community flexibility on how they would like to charge their vehicle, whether it's a quick top-up while heading into the shop or cafe, or a longer stay when they are at work or school.
"We now have an established EV charger network in the ACT, which means government funding can support new chargers that fill gaps in the existing network. More EV chargers will be coming soon in strategic locations across Canberra that are supported by the ACT Government's Public EV Charging Infrastructure Fund.
"Transport currently accounts for over 60% of ACT emissions, but more and more Canberrans are making the switch to electric, with the ACT having the highest update of EV ownership in the country.
"We are continuing to support Canberrans making the transition to an electric vehicle through stamp duty exemptions, lower registration, and interest free loans," said Minister Rattenbury.
Minister for City Services Tara Cheyne said the expansion of the EV charging network is vital in encouraging greater uptake of EVs, providing confidence to our local community and visitors, as well industry support and development.
"The EV Charging Infrastructure Policy has resulted in us being able to roll out these chargers at lower cost and with less red tape. In addition to delivering more EV charging stations on public land and in ACT Government car parks, I am pleased to announce a trial is currently underway to assess the suitability of charging an EV using our streetlight infrastructure," Minister Cheyne said.
"A streetlight column on Eastlake Parade has had an EV charger installed and can power an EV using its existing electricity supply. It is a convenient option for motorists and a great way to increase EV charging options without the need for additional infrastructure.
"The streetlight is located next to an existing on-street parking spot which will be designated for EV parking only, with new signage to be installed soon.
"The trial of this innovative technology will run for six months to determine whether a wider rollout of this type of EV charger is possible," said Minister Cheyne.
The new public chargers are operated by Evie Networks. Seven public chargers received support from ACT Government. Two additional public chargers, one each at Jamison Plaza and Calwell, have been installed with the support of funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). This brings the total number of chargers at the five sites to nine.
