The rise in popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in New Zealand is undeniable, with major car manufacturers introducing more affordable models with increased range. As we anticipate the arrival of mass-market EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq, and the next-generation Nissan Leaf, the demand for home, workplace, and public EV charging infrastructure is expected to soar.
Let’s delve into the specifics and costs associated with setting up Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) in New Zealand.
For many EV drivers in New Zealand, home charging is the primary method, similar to charging a mobile phone overnight during off-peak hours. This not only maximises convenience but also takes advantage of lower electricity prices and reduced grid demand. While Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) with shorter ranges may suffice with standard portable chargers, investing in a Level 2 EV charging station offers faster charging speeds, enhanced safety features, and connectivity benefits. The cost of setting up a home EV charging station typically ranges from $1000 to $2500, with installation costs varying based on existing infrastructure and upgrades required.
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When considering what EV charging station is right for your home, it’s always worth thinking about your needs now and into the future as this could save you a lot of money down the track. Installation is necessary through a licensed electrician and can be a very simple process taking around an hour for $800 if very little upgrades are required, or an increase in cost (+$1000) if you don’t have flexibility with EV charger location and require upgrades to circuits and breakers.
Public AC EV Chargers
Public EV charging stations, commonly found at workplaces, car parks, shopping centers, and councils, cater to a broader range of EV drivers. The hardware costs for single-port public EV chargers range from $1950 to $3000, depending on the features and brand of the machine.
Type 2 Socket systems are also the preference for public projects as this allows open access to all EV drivers on the road, and minimizes potential damage associated with a tethered cable. Public EV charging stations are more robust and are often pedestal mounted allowing for maximum versatility and usability. Dual socket systems or dual mounted public EV chargers are also available with installation costs decreasing relative to the number of chargers being set up.
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Unlike a home EV charging station, where the hardware component comprises the major cost, installation is the major contributor to public EV charger cost (60-80% of the total). Distance to the breaker box is usually the most critical factor in determining the installation cost, and will usually range from 15-30m. Runs longer than 40m are usually too expensive to justify station installation and therefore a change in location of the charge point needs to be considered.
Car park and garage installations are the simpler and more economic public EV charger options and will typically cost around $6000 with the EV charger and wiring all being wall mounted. Curbside and pedestal mounted stations can become more expensive than a car park EV charger due to the additional trenching or directional boring to run conduit and wiring to the EV charging station. Added costs will arise if the stations require connection to Ethernet or 4G connectivity for management and billing purposes.
Public DC EV Chargers
Level 3 or DC fast charging stations offer rapid recharge capabilities, reaching around 80% charge in just 30 minutes. However, these stations come with higher hardware costs, ranging from $40,000 to $100,000 per charging station.
See EVSE’s DC electric car charging range here
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In addition to high hardware costs, installation can also be very expensive given the frequent need to install a 480V transformer, upgrade the electrical supply as well as the permitting and increased labor time needed for the project. Installation costs would likely range from between $15,000-$60,000 depending on the specific nature of the project.
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