Tasmania is to roll out 11 new public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the state as part of the third round of its ChargeSmart Electric Vehicle Charging Grants program that will contribute a total of $550,000 in finding.
This adds to the $1.3 million that has already been provided under the first two rounds of the ChargeSmart program, which has resulted in the installation of 33 fast chargers and 46 workplace chargers across Tasmania.
Among the recipients are Electric Highway Tasmania, which has received funding for three new charging stations (and one upgrade) to be built at Huonville, Prospect Vale, Miena, and an upgrade to its existing St Helens charging station.
Hobart EV charging infrastructure company Electrona also received funding for four charging stations, to be built at Port Arthur, Bothwell, Coles Bay, and Orford.
“Electric vehicles are growing in popularity in Tasmania, which is great,” said Madeleine Ogilvie, Tasmania’s minister for the environment.
“But some charging stations are either approaching capacity, or will get there in the near future.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we want to make sure that wherever you are in Tassie, you can easily locate and conveniently use a public charging station.
“More EVs on our streets are better for the climate and environment and create more pleasant walking and driving experiences.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.