In a bold step to address the growing demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, PLUS ES and AGL have joined forces to revolutionise EV accessibility across New South Wales. With the support of the NSW Government, the initiative promises to make charging safer, more convenient, and entirely renewable, helping Australians embrace the EV future.
The Initiative at a Glance
On 19 November 2024, the first 39 kerbside EV chargers were launched in Sydney’s inner west, marking the start of a rollout that will see 149 chargers installed across NSW. These pole-mounted chargers are strategically placed in high-demand areas such as Birchgrove, Balmain, Lewisham, Stanmore, and Newtown. The project uses existing power poles to minimise costs and disruption, demonstrating an innovative approach to sustainable infrastructure development.
Powered by AGL’s GreenPower product, the chargers offer 100% renewable energy. To encourage early adoption, AGL has made charging free until 31 January 2025, giving users the chance to experience EV ownership with minimal barriers.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone on the path to a cleaner, more accessible, and sustainable future for transportation,” said Rob Amphlett Lewis, Group Executive of Distributed Services at PLUS ES. “By deploying safe, accessible kerbside charging, we’re making it easier for residents to consider an EV for their next vehicle purchase.”
Addressing Urban Challenges
One-third of NSW residents lack off-street parking, creating significant hurdles for EV ownership. Many have resorted to unsafe practices like running extension cords across public spaces to charge their vehicles. The kerbside chargers not only eliminate these risks but also offer a practical, reliable solution for urban dwellers.
“We want residents to have confidence that when they come home after a long day, they can plug their vehicle in and know it’ll be ready for their morning commute,” Amphlett Lewis explained. This assurance is pivotal for building trust and boosting EV adoption among those without private charging options.
Tackling the Infrastructure Gap
Australia trails behind Europe in public EV charging infrastructure, with a vehicle-to-charger ratio of 35:1 compared to Europe’s 10:1. This disparity has raised concerns about the pace of the EV transition.
“If customers feel anxious about transitioning to EVs due to inadequate infrastructure, the transition will be delayed,” Amphlett Lewis said. “We’re excited to roll out these chargers in partnership with AGL and with support from the NSW Government. This is a critical step towards decarbonising society”.
By focusing on kerbside charging, the project prioritises urban areas where infrastructure gaps are most acute. The scalable model could pave the way for similar initiatives across the country.
AGL’s Role in Decarbonisation
As a leading energy retailer, AGL is committed to accelerating the transition to cleaner energy. In addition to supplying 100% renewable power for the chargers, AGL is introducing innovative solutions to make EV ownership more appealing. This includes an EV subscription model, home charging packages, and the EV Night Saver plan.
“Charging will be available either via an app or an access card, and for the next couple of months, we’ve made it free,” said Jo Egan, Chief Customer Officer at AGL. “This allows residents to get used to the process at no cost at all”.
AGL’s efforts aim to remove barriers to EV adoption and make the transition to sustainable transportation seamless for all Australians. Whether or not users are AGL customers, the initiative ensures broad accessibility and inclusivity.
Creating a Replicable Model
The pole-mounted charger design offers a blueprint for efficient, cost-effective infrastructure development. By reusing existing power poles, the project reduces installation costs and community disruption. Unlike traditional charging stations, these kerbside chargers require less dedicated parking, maximising their utility in densely populated areas.
“We expect this model to encourage residents to consider EVs and contribute to the decarbonisation effort,” said Amphlett Lewis. “We hope this is the first of many such projects to come.”
The chargers also align with the upcoming National Vehicle Emissions Standards (NVES), set to take effect on 1 January 2025. By providing convenient public charging options, the project supports NSW’s broader climate goals and positions the state as a leader in EV adoption.
A Vision for the Future
This partnership between PLUS ES, AGL, and the NSW Government is more than an infrastructure project—it’s a vision for a cleaner, greener future. By addressing the needs of urban residents and overcoming critical infrastructure gaps, the initiative lays the foundation for widespread EV adoption in New South Wales.
As Australia moves closer to implementing stricter emissions standards, projects like this demonstrate how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful change. The free charging period, user-friendly access options, and focus on renewable energy make the initiative a standout example of sustainable innovation.
For those considering the switch to electric vehicles, the rollout provides a compelling reason to take the plunge. With accessible kerbside charging and a commitment to renewable energy, the path to a sustainable future has never been clearer.
