Meridian Energy charges up EV infrastructure

Canterbury and Otago businesses will find it easier to cater to New Zealand’s growing EV numbers.

That’s thanks to support from Meridian Energy and the Government’s low emission vehicles contestable fund.

Meridian Energy will commission 22kW AC electric vehicle charging stations at businesses across the two regions after securing $150,000 in co-funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) administered fund.

Meridian’s emerging markets team manager Tim Calder says the goal is to expand the AC charging network in Otago and Canterbury to reduce range anxiety and increase convenience.

“New Zealand’s public charging network is still underdeveloped compared to established markets overseas,” he says.

“This project will help businesses play their part in addressing this and ultimately accelerating EV uptake in New Zealand.”

Retail, accommodation, tourism and hospitality businesses have a particularly important role in lifting New Zealand’s EV game, Calder says.

“We know many businesses want to provide chargers for customers but lack the necessary expertise and resources to make the investment. We’ll be lowering these barriers by giving them access to high quality advice, reliable technology, and operational or financial support.”

Project results will allow other regions in New Zealand to identify similar opportunities to support the EV growth.

“Our tried and tested approach shows that investing in charging stations makes good business sense,” Calder adds.

“This is a major step forward to making EVs a viable way to travel around town and the length and breadth of New Zealand.”