The Morrison Government is backing a new trial aimed at better understanding and minimising the impact of electric vehicle (EV) charging on the supply of reliable and secure energy.

Continuing our support for consumer choice in future fuels, the Government is partnering with energy operator Jemena and four network service providers to gain a better understanding of how EV charging impacts the electricity system.

The trial is being conducted in 176 homes across Victoria, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory. Participating network service providers will monitor users’ charging habits to understand the network conditions and impact of EVs on the grid in real time.

This trial is the first time networks will play a direct role in EV charge management. 

The Government is providing $1.6 million towards the $3.4 million trial through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the trial will provide key insights into managing the impact of EVs on Australia’s electricity grid.

“An unmanaged uptake of EVs could have negative impacts on the electricity grid if a large number of vehicles are charged at home during peak periods,” Minister Taylor said. 

“This trial will give us a greater understanding of how to integrate future fuel technologies in Australia without compromising our energy grid.”

Jemena will employ a number of new staff to undertake the trial in conjunction with network service providers AusNet Services, Evoenergy, TasNetworks and United Energy.

This funding builds on the Government’s support for consumer choice and efforts to reduce barriers to future fuel technology uptake. 

Through ARENA, the Government has provided $21 million for two electric vehicle charging networks and $11.7 million for projects focusing on smart charging and tools to make it easier for motorists and businesses to purchase new technology vehicles. 

The Government has also provided up to $1.1 billion in concessional finance is available through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to assist uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles.

In the 2020-21 Budget, the Government announced the $71.9 million Future Fuels Fund, to be administered by ARENA, that will focus on supporting fleets and better infrastructure. 

“Australians should be able to choose which type of car they drive and the Government is continuing to support them in this decision,” Minister Taylor said.

The Future Fuels Strategy Discussion Paper outlines the Government’s vision to create an environment that enables consumer choice, stimulates industry development and reduces emissions in the road transport sector. To contribute or learn more about the Strategy process, visit: https://consult.industry.gov.au/climate-change/future-fuels-strategy/ 

Media contact:

Minister Taylor's office: 02 6277 7120