The future of transportation in Australia is poised for a transformation as industry specialists rally behind a revolutionary plan to supercharge the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) across the nation. The key to this electrifying revolution? A major overhaul of the country’s EV charging infrastructure that promises to make electric mobility accessible to everyone.
In a recent report by Energy Networks Australia, a bold proposal was unveiled that could see distribution networks install, own, and maintain EV chargers directly on their existing power poles. This strategy aims to tackle the current barriers to EV ownership head-on, with inadequate charging options being a significant roadblock for many potential EV drivers. At the time of writing, Australia has over 5,000 public electric car chargers, though with this proposal, that number could drastically increase.
Ausgrid, one of Australia’s largest distribution networks, has thrown its full support behind this call for change. Nick Black, Ausgrid’s head of EVC and infrastructure development, spoke about the potential of this plan. By updating regulations to allow the deployment of chargers on power poles, Black envisions a future where charging is ‘available to everyone no matter where they live’.
The concept is simple yet ingenious. Power poles, traditionally used for electricity distribution, could be retrofitted to support EV charging. This would involve installing charging units, safety mechanisms, and metering systems, as well as ensuring that the poles can handle the additional load without affecting grid stability.
By leveraging this existing infrastructure, the plan promises to minimise disruption and provide a reliable, accessible, and cost-effective charging experience, which is easily maintained, akin to streetlights.
Black emphasises the benefits of opening up access to all charging providers, which could drive down costs and foster competition among EV charging retailers. This competition is expected to lead to lower prices and greater transparency for consumers.
‘EV chargers should be where they are needed, not where they are economically viable,’ Black asserts, highlighting the importance of accessibility over profitability.
However, the path to implementing pole-mounted EV chargers is not without its challenges. Complex regulatory frameworks must be navigated, and modifications require approval from authorities. Compliance with safety, zoning, and utility regulations is crucial. Black calls for an update to current regulations ‘to reflect the opportunity that sits within the existing electricity distribution networks’.
The Australian EV market is already showing signs of growth, with approximately 91,293 EVs sold in 2024, making up 7.4 per cent of the total new car market. Tesla continues to lead the pack, although its market share has seen a slight decrease. With around 40 new EV models expected to launch in 2025 and government initiatives such as new emissions laws and supportive policies, the stage is set for an accelerated shift towards electric mobility.
This plan, if brought to fruition, could be the catalyst Australia needs to embrace a greener, more sustainable future on the roads. It’s a vision of a country where electric vehicles are not just a luxury for the few but a practical choice for the many.
What are your thoughts on this innovative approach to boosting EV ownership? Have you considered making the switch to an electric vehicle, or do you have concerns about the current state of charging infrastructure? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, and let’s drive the conversation forward!
Also read:You will soon be able to power your house with your electric car. Here’s how.
I own an EV, wonderful car. I am in a position to charge at home where power costs are much lower than at commercial chargers and since we have roof top solar during a fine day my power is effectively free.
For the occasional very long trip I have found a big shortage of commercial public chargers plus most of them charge more than double the local cost of electricity.
So IMO this article is correct on both counts.
Whilst this may appear attractive to EV owners away from home or those who do not have home access to charging, if the charger is hung on a power pole or street light in front of your place, that will come at a cost of there being no parking adjacent to that pole for residents unless actively charging.
As said, it will only be practical if the Grid capacity into your street is there or else there will be the potential for “brown outs” if there are large scale coincident connections of the EVs.
The implementation of charge stations in the local shopping centre car parks remains a more sensible course of action.
The present rate of adoption of the EVs is probably appropriate as the market decides.
The EV is still a niche market with neither the will nor the need for it to be forced onto the motoring public.