Smart EV charging trial launched

About 120 Auckland EV users are trialling smart EV charging technology.

Vector has installed a 7kW smart charger in each participant’s home for up to 18 months, during which time Vector will work with participants to collect data on their EV charging preferences and better understand how smart EV charging can satisfy their expectations.

The trial, launched by transport minister Phil Twyford, will also determine if optimising EV charging schedules can help alleviate peak demands on the network, a benefit of which could include avoiding the need to invest in expensive network infrastructure upgrades.

“EVs present a large opportunity for New Zealand to reduce carbon emissions, increase energy security and improve air quality. However, if uptake is left unmanaged, the distribution network will start to become constrained and require costly reinforcement,” Vector Group chief executive officer Simon Mackenzie says.

“If the number of EVs on our roads reaches two million by 2035, as supported by the ICCC, the demands this will place on our existing network infrastructure will be unprecedented, especially if residents arrive home at the end of a typical work day and start charging their cars at the same time, on top of their other energy needs,” he says.

“We’re interested in finding out how smart EV charging, combined with intelligent load management, can help us seamlessly integrate and support EV uptake. Our aim is to determine how we can all benefit from the environmental advantages of EVs, and ensure we have affordable and reliable infrastructure as Auckland grows, while avoiding the need for large infrastructure investments.”

Twyford says it’s important to have the infrastructure to support the changes needed.

“Our Government is working to meet Auckland’s infrastructure needs through the Auckland Transport Alignment Project and we’re also looking at encouraging the uptake of low emission vehicles.”

Auckland mayor Phil Goff says transport emissions make up 40% of overall carbon emissions in Auckland so transitioning to sustainable transport modes such as EVs is a key part of tackling climate change challenges.

“This trial by Vector will help maximise the environmental benefits of increased EV usage while avoiding disruption to the energy network.”

The trial was launched Loren Woolmore’s home.

“For us, owning an EV means breaking away from our dependence on fossil fuels and setting an example for our children that shows them we need to care for our planet, which they will one day inherit,” she says.

“We wanted to take part in the smart charger trial because we wanted to see exactly how much power our cars were using, and we are passionate about doing our part to become a more sustainable country.”