Energy Minister Simeon Brown has revealed the government's initiative to bolster New Zealand's electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure by introducing 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes connecting major urban centres.

These hubs are designed to accommodate several chargers, capable of simultaneously charging between four and ten vehicles, and will be strategically located near amenities for convenience.

"New Zealanders considering an EV need confidence they can charge where and when they need on the public network. The Government is committed to working with industry to supercharge public EV infrastructure to remove 'range anxiety' and make owning an EV as easy as possible," stated Mr. Brown.

The government aims to significantly increase the number of public EV chargers across New Zealand, with a target of 10,000 charging points by 2030.

This ambitious goal aligns with the broader objective of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the Net Zero 2050 goal.

To achieve this plan, Cabinet has approved the development of a new model to support investment in EV charging infrastructure in New Zealand.

This model is part of a comprehensive work programme that includes several key components:

• Development of a cost-benefit framework for government co-investment in public EV chargers, consistent with the National Act Coalition Agreement, and transitioning the co-investment model to maximise private investment. Decisions on the model will be confirmed late 2024.

• Reduction of red tape and regulation, including removing the requirement for a resource consent for the installation of public EV chargers.

• Establishment of enabling standards to improve consumers' capability to shift home EV charging demand away from network "peaks."

• Collaboration with the Electricity Authority to address barriers such as connection costs and ensure consistent approaches to EV charging connections across all 29 electricity distributors in New Zealand.

• Formation of a Cross-Agency Taskforce, including the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, the Ministry of Transport, EECA (the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority), and Crown Infrastructure Partners, to drive the work programme and engage with industry.

The government's commitment to expanding the public EV charging network and its comprehensive plan to achieve this goal reflect a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

With the implementation of these measures, New Zealand is poised to make owning and operating an electric vehicle more accessible and convenient for its citizens, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.