Ausgrid is asking EV owners for their input to determine what additional charging infrastructure could be needed to ensure it is prepared to support driver’s needs in the future.
The electricity network recently signed up to the federal government funded Charge Together project which is designed to make it simpler, more affordable, and more accessible to own and operate electric vehicles (EVs).
Chief Customer Officer, Rob Amphlett Lewis, said Ausgrid is planning now for how to cater for the increasing uptake of electric vehicles.
“Electric vehicles can bring enormous benefits to customers through lower transport bills, quieter streets and a cleaner environment which is why we are proud to support initiatives such as Charge Together,” Mr Lewis said.
A 2018 Australian Electric Vehicle Market Study, prepared for ARENA and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, found sales of electric and hybrid electric vehicles in Australia are forecast to reach 615,000 a year by 2030 and almost 2 million by 2040.
Ausgrid is now planning to ensure the grid has sufficient charging infrastructure in place to support the influx of EVs and has launched an online survey seeking information from electric vehicle owners.
“EVs present an incredible opportunity as we shape the future of energy and it is one we must get right, which is why we need help from customers to plan for their needs,” Mr Lewis said.
“We’re seeking feedback from EV owners to help us better understand how they currently use and charge their vehicles, so we can plan and ensure the network can support their needs in the future.”
The first 300 eligible EV owners in NSW will be rewarded with a gift card for taking part in the brief survey. You can find out more information and take part in the survey here: www.ausgrid.com.au/chargetogether
