Background
Electric vehicle uptake in Tasmania
There are two key factors anticipated to increase electric vehicle uptake in Australia.
Firstly, electric vehicle model availability in Australia is expected to increase with nine new
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) models being introduced into Australia by the end of 2019. Five of these models are expected to be priced at $60,000 or less.
Secondly, it is predicted electric vehicles will reach cost parity with Internal Combustion Engine vehicles by 2025, which is expected to contribute to widespread electric vehicle adoption.
Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
While the primary charging site for most electric vehicle owners is at home, public charging is needed to support longer distance drives that go beyond the current rate of charge of an electric vehicle (around 100 km to 300 km depending on the electric vehicle type).
With electric vehicle uptake on the rise, it is likely the market (via private charging station owners and operators) will lead the rollout of public fast chargers in Tasmania within the next two to five years.
Public charging infrastructure is needed for local electric vehicle users (individuals and fleets), and visitors who wish to tour the State using electric vehicles.
Electric vehicle charging stations can also act to raise community awareness of the technology, which is known to improve the likelihood of adoption among potential electric vehicle purchasers.
Further information on electric vehicle charging infrastructure is provided at Appendix 1 (Supplementary technical notes).
TasNetworks Electric Vehicle Fast Charger Support Scheme
TasNetworks has an Electric Vehicle Fast Charger Support Scheme to act as an incentive for the installation of public Direct Current (DC) fast chargers.
The Scheme provides network support in the form of technical advice and cost rebate components and has a funding pool of $250,000 over five years (commencing 2017-18). Technical advice refers to providing information regarding the technical characteristics of DC fast chargers, and the power supply upgrade options to allow the connection of a DC fast charger.
The TasNetworks Scheme, which focuses on providing electricity network support, is complementary to the Tasmanian Government’s commitment to support a statewide charging network through providing funding.