Supporting the uptake of Smart Electric Vehicle charging in New Zealand

Most EV charging happens at home, and there is a risk that as EV uptake increases this could significantly increase peak demand. Without smarter charging solutions, this could lead to higher infrastructure costs and increased power bills for all consumers.

Smart EV chargers offer a practical solution. These devices can communicate with the electricity system to charge vehicles when electricity is cheaper and more readily available. This helps reduce pressure on the grid, lowers household energy costs, and supports New Zealand’s transition to a more resilient and renewable energy future.

What’s being proposed?

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is consulting on a range of options to encourage the uptake of smart EV chargers:

• Option 1: Status Quo – Continue with current voluntary guidance and approved product lists.
• Option 2: Voluntary Labelling – Introduce optional labels to help consumers identify smart and efficient chargers.
• Option 3: Mandatory Labelling – Require all EV chargers to carry labels showing smart functionality and energy efficiency.
• Option 4: Smart Charger Requirement – Mandate that all new EV chargers supplied in New Zealand must have smart functionality.
• Option 4A: Smart Charger + Mandatory Labelling – Combine smart functionality requirements with mandatory labelling to enhance consumer awareness and choice.

These options aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce infrastructure costs, and empower consumers to manage their electricity use more effectively. The preferred option is Option 4A, which offers the greatest potential benefits for consumers and the electricity system.