PLUS ES will install 149 new pole-mounted EV chargers across Sydney, supported by the NSW Government’s EV Charging Grant Program.
The project will see more pole-mounted charging units across the Inner West, Waverly, Randwick, Woollahra and Lane Cove areas, significantly increasing access to public charging infrastructure.
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PLUS ES group executive of distributed services Rob Amphlett Lewis said the company would use existing public power pole infrastructure to minimise community disruption and lower installation costs.
“We believe pole-mounted chargers are the most safe, efficient and cost-effective way to bring charging to the kerb,” he said.
“Utilising existing assets significantly reduces costs, but also minimises public inconvenience as there’s no need to excavate the footpath or road.
“This makes the EV charging infrastructure installation process quick and seamless and reduces the visual impacts on already busy urban streetscapes.”
PLUS ES head of infrastructure delivery Nate Larkin said the initiative also presented a unique opportunity to test a forward-thinking approach to EV charging.
“As part of this project, we will be deploying 70% of the chargers without dedicated parking spaces,” he said.
“As well as keeping costs down and reducing installation time, this will allow us to see if this model can be a viable solution in the future.
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“Additionally, we’ll be exploring ways to integrate cutting-edge technologies like Plug & Charge (PnC) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities, which can help balance the electricity grid as more renewable energy sources are added.”
The new chargers are expected to be installed by December.
