With the Electric Vehicle (EV) market growing, we're empowering our customers to make the switch.

That's why we are building a smarter, more efficient grid that will support the shift to electric.

EVs will play an important role in the future.

To meet new needs on the grid, we’re researching and preparing for energy changes with the arrival of EVs. For example, there will be greater demand on the grid for home charging.

Working with the CSIRO, we investigated how EVs can be used (PDF) to manage network peak demand in a cost-effective way. We've also surveyed EV owners to understand charging behaviour. 

EV benefits

Electric Vehicles (EVs) offer some attractive advantages over petrol or diesel fuelled vehicles:

• Cost effective: An EV recharge can be half the cost or less to fuel a traditional car over the same distance. Most electric vehicles also need less maintenance than traditional vehicles.
• Lower emissions: EV's emit little to no emissions on the road. While charging an EV from a renewable source can further reduce net emissions.
• Convenience: With an EV you can wake up to a charged car ready to go, and never have to detour to a petrol station again.

Home charging

Here's what you need to know about EV charging at home.

It is possible charge your EV at home using a standard electrical power point. This is Level 1 charging and is the slowest form of charging. The time it will take to fully charge will depend on the on-board charger inside the car.

For faster charging, you can choose to install a dedicated charging unit instead. This is Level 2 charging. We recommend checking with the installer if you'll need to upgrade your home’s electricity supply. You may need convert your home to three-phase power.

To help lower your bill, charge your EV overnight for off-peak electricity rates. If you have a solar system at home, consider charging during the day and make use of excess solar generation.