Why Companies Should Adopt EV Charger Infrastructure

In 2023, Australian new EV purchases more than doubled compared to the previous year, resulting in over 180,000 EVs driving the nation’s roads. This growth trend has remained consistent, as seen in Figure 1, with the new EV market doubling annually since 2020. The substantial increase in population can be attributed to action taken by the Australian government, reduced costs for consumers, the expansion of model availability, and the establishment of robust charging infrastructure across all states. 

Undoubtedly, the reduction of carbon footprint change remains a pressing issue. Still, the adoption of EV infrastructure presents many opportunities for economic development, urban planning, technological innovation, inclusivity, and governmental leadership. At Addelec + Gemtek, we emphasise the significance of adopting EV charger infrastructure for businesses. We aim to guide decision-makers with actionable insights that align with financial interests while promoting a sustainable future. 

Environmental imperative: 

The environmental imperative lies at the forefront of the argument for embracing EV charging infrastructure. Driven by carbon emissions from traditional combustion engine vehicles, automotive technology demands a swift transition to cleaner alternatives. Electricity-powered vehicles present a greener solution, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. However, the success of this transition hinges on the availability and accessibility of a robust charging infrastructure. 

Installing widespread EV charging stations encourages consumers to switch from conventional vehicles to electric ones. The ease of charging becomes a pivotal factor in the widespread adoption of EVs, making it imperative for cities and nations to invest in comprehensive charging networks. 

Most recently, Addelec + Gemtek was excited to partner with the NRMA to expand their EV Charging network across South Australia and introduce more charging infrastructure to the broader community. This involved the delivery of two new charging stations to locations in the Barossa Valley and the Riverland region. 

Economic advantages: 

The economic advantages of embracing EV charging infrastructure are multifaceted. 

1. 1. 1. Job creation
         The development of a widespread charging network stimulates job creation. From manufacturing and installation to maintenance and support services, the EV charging industry is a burgeoning sector with the potential to boost employment opportunities. 

1. 1. 2. Investment opportunities
         EV infrastructure investment positions countries at the forefront of a growing global market. As nations vie for technological supremacy, being a leader in the EV revolution enhances economic competitiveness and opens doors to export opportunities. Countries with a well-established charging infrastructure will likely attract investment from automakers, tech companies, and other stakeholders eager to capitalise on the growing demand for EVs.
         
         While Australia may currently lag behind other countries in global EV adoption rates, as illustrated in Figure 2, there are promising signs that position Australia as a competitive player in the EV industry. The anticipated sales growth, coupled with the implementation of initiatives like the NSW EV Destination Charging program and various government grants and incentives, underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening its position in the market. Noteworthy companies such as NRMA, BP, EVSE Australia, and Addelec + Gemtek are actively driving the expansion of the EV market in Australia through their initiatives and investments. These actions are pivotal in creating a conducive environment for EV adoption and encouraging widespread EV charger infrastructure development. 

1. 1. 3. Less dependence on oil
         Furthermore, the electrification of transportation can potentially reduce dependence on oil, mitigating the economic vulnerabilities associated with volatile oil prices. As nations invest in renewable energy sources to power EVs, they can cultivate energy independence, insulating their economies from geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations in the oil industry. 

Urban planning and mobility: 

Embracing EV charging infrastructure is intricately linked to reimagining urban landscapes and transforming how people move within cities. Integrating charging stations into urban planning is crucial for fostering sustainable and efficient mobility. Strategically placed charging points in public spaces, parking lots, and residential areas encourage EV adoption by addressing the range anxiety that often deters potential buyers. 

Moreover, a well-connected charging infrastructure eases the growth of shared mobility services, such as electric ride-hailing and car-sharing programs. Cities that prioritise these services can reduce congestion, improve public transportation, and create more livable urban environments. The interplay between EV charging infrastructure and urban planning is a cornerstone in building smart cities of the future. 

Technological innovation and research: 

The evolution of EV charging infrastructure goes hand in hand with technological innovation. Research and development in battery technology, charging speed, and energy storage are accelerated when there is a growing demand for efficient charging solutions. 

This not only fosters breakthroughs in the EV sector but has broader implications for energy storage and grid management. 

Investments in research to improve charging efficiency, reduce charging times, and enhance battery capabilities have a ripple effect, influencing advancements in related fields. A thriving EV charging infrastructure creates a conducive environment for tech companies and innovators to experiment with innovative solutions, contributing to a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. 

In partnership with ABB and LKS Construction, Addelec + Gemtek recently led a pioneering technological initiative at Joondalup bus depot, shaping Western Australia’s public transportation. Our meticulous design and collaboration transformed the depot into a beacon of sustainability, leveraging ABB’s High-Power EV Chargers for optimised uptime. Gemtek’s comprehensive services included power consumption analysis, future-poof design, 1MW site transformer installation, custom main switchboards, and pit and pipe network planning, helping the Joondalup site become a leading location in WA’s public transportation landscape. 

Inclusivity and accessibility: 

Adopting EV charging infrastructure is as much about inclusivity and accessibility as it is about environmental sustainability and economic growth. Ensuring that charging stations are widely distributed, including in rural and underserved areas, is essential for creating an inclusive transition to electric mobility. 

By making EV charging accessible to all communities, regardless of socio-economic status, governments can promote social equity. This inclusivity extends beyond urban centres, allowing individuals in remote areas to participate in the electric vehicle revolution. Governments and private entities must collaborate to develop solutions catering to communities’ diverse needs, making EVs a viable and attractive option for a broader demographic. 

Governmental leadership: 

The successful implementation of EV charging infrastructure necessitates strong governmental leadership. The government plays a pivotal role in setting policies, offering incentives, and investing in developing charging networks. Governments can encourage private entities to invest in EV infrastructure by establishing clear regulatory frameworks and financial incentives. 

International cooperation is also crucial in addressing the global nature of combatting climate issues. Collaborative efforts between nations can facilitate the standardisation of charging technologies and charging network interoperability, creating a seamless experience for EV users across borders. 

Embracing EV charging infrastructure is no longer just about convenience; it’s a crucial step towards a sustainable future. Addelec + Gemtek is here to guide the way. We understand that the success of electric mobility relies on a robust and efficient charging infrastructure. Our expertise in power consumption analysis, future-proof design, and seamless integration ensures that our solutions can expand the fleet of electric vehicles in Australia. We want to help governments, businesses, and communities unite to build a comprehensive and accessible EV charging infrastructure for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world. 

For additional information, please visit the Addelec website or contact our customer service team on 1300 795 262.