Discover the financial implications and advantages of installing residential and commercial EV chargers in Australia, and how they can drive the transition to a greener future.

Differences Between Residential Chargers and Commercial EV Chargers 

Residential EV Chargers are typically designed for personal use in homes and are meant to charge a single vehicle overnight or during off-peak periods. These chargers are usually slower rates (7-22kW) compared to commercial chargers, which are designed to handle one or two vehicles at a time and offer significantly faster charging speeds.

Commercial EV chargers, on the other hand, are often installed in public spaces such as shopping centres, parking lots, and workplaces. These chargers can be AC or DC chargers and are built to be more durable and can accommodate higher power outputs (30-420kW), enabling faster charging for a larger number of electric vehicles.

Costs of Residential EV Chargers 

The cost of installing a residential EV charger in Australia can vary significantly depending on the type of charger and the complexity of the installation. Portable chargers, known as “trickle chargers” or “granny chargers”, can cost far less than wall-mounted electric vehicle chargers. They provide around 10km of range per hour, taking most vehicles 18-48 hours to fully charge, which is a much less efficient way of charging. These chargers do not require installation, and can be plugged into a household outlet.

However, Level 2 chargers, which require installation, may be a bigger upfront cost, but the convenience is worth it. A 7kW charger can provide around 40km of range per hour, while a 22kW charger can provide up to 120km per hour. Although they are more costly, they save you significant time in the long run, enabling you to top up your charge between dropping the kids to school and picking up the groceries.

Installation fees can vary depending on the electrical work required. Factors such as the distance from the electrical panel to the installation site, whether single-phase or three-phase power is needed, and any necessary upgrades to the home’s electrical system can also affect the total cost.

Advantages of Residential EV Charger Installations 

Having a residential EV charger installed at home provides a number of benefits that enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience. Here are some of the key benefits:

Convenience of Home Charging:

One of the most significant benefits of a residential EV charger is the convenience it offers. Instead of making regular trips to public charging stations, you can simply plug in your vehicles at home. This means that charging can be done overnight or during off-peak hours, ensuring the vehicle is fully charged and ready to go whenever you need it. The elimination of time spent searching for a public charger allows for a smooth transition to electric driving.

Cost-effectiveness:

Charging your EV at home can be more economical than relying on public charging stations. Homeowners can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, which are generally lower than rates during peak demand times. By strategically charging during these hours , you can significantly reduce your overall energy costs. Additionally, many utility companies offer special rates or incentives for EV owners, further enhancing the financial benefits of home charging.

Increased Property Value: 

The installation of a residential EV charger can enhance the value of a home. As electric vehicles become more popular, potential homebuyers may view the availability of charging infrastructure as a desirable feature. This added convenience can set your property apart in a competitive real estate market, making it a valuable investment for current homeowners.

Time Management:

For residential EV charging, the value of saving time is immense, both in terms of daily convenience and long-term benefits. With a home charger, you can avoid frequent trips to public charging stations and simply plug in overnight, starting each day with a fully charged vehicle. This not only saves you time but also provides you with flexibility, allowing you to set your own charging schedule to match your lifestyle and utility rates for cost savings.

 

Costs of Commercial EV Chargers

The costs associated with installing commercial EV chargers are generally higher than those for residential chargers. This is dependent on the type and capacity of the charger. Installation costs can also be substantially more than residential installations.

Factors that influence the cost include the number of charging ports, the need for electrical upgrades, and the infrastructure required to support high power outputs. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and operation costs should be considered when evaluating the total investment.

Advantages of Commercial EV Chargers for Public Businesses 

Installing EV chargers at public businesses offer a range of benefits that go beyond just meeting the needs of electric vehicle owners. As the EV market continues to expand, these charging stations can become a key differentiator for businesses looking to stay ahead.

Attract a new Demographic & Growing Consumer Base: 

As more people make the switch to electric vehicles, offering charging facilities can draw in a larger, eco-conscious customer segment. Businesses with EV chargers signal a forward-thinking, environmentally friendly mindset, which can enhance their brand reputation and loyalty among customers who value sustainability.

Enhance Customer Satisfaction and Extend Visits:

Providing charging facilities improves the customer experience by offering convenience and encouraging longer stays. This can lead to increased spending, as customers are more likely to engage with your business while their vehicle charges.

Generate Additional Revenue Streams: 

Paid charging services create a new income source for businesses, helping to offset installation costs and contribute to operational expenses. This makes EV chargers not just an amenity, but a smart investment with long-term financial benefits.

 

Advantages of Commercial EV Chargers for Fleets

For businesses that operates vehicle fleets, transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) and installing dedicated commercial EV chargers can unlock a range of operational and financial benefits.

Significant Fuel Cost Savings: 

Electric vehicles are more cost-effective to “fuel” compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. By charging fleet vehicles with electricity instead of relying on gasoline or diesel, businesses can substantially reduce fuel costs. These savings become more pronounced as fleet sizes grow, translating to significant long-term reductions in operational expenses.

Lower Maintenance Expenses: 

EVs have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than their ICE counterparts. With no need for oil changes, exhaust system repairs, or complex engine maintenance, businesses can benefit from reduced service costs and fewer vehicle downtimes. Installing commercial EV chargers ensure fleet vehicles remain charged and operational, further minimising disruption and improving reliability.

Greater Operational Efficiency and Reduced Downtime:

Having a dedicated charging infrastructure for your fleet ensures vehicles are always ready for use, optimising fleet management and reducing downtime. Drivers can easily charge vehicles during off-peak hours or overnight, ensuring that fleets are fully charged and available for use during working hours. This increases reliability, improves fleet scheduling, and enhances overall operational efficiency.

 

Government Incentives and Rebates for EV Charger Installation

The Australia Government offers various incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and the installation of chargers. These incentives can help offset the initial costs and make the transition to electric vehicles more affordable for both individuals and businesses.

Programs such as the NSW Electric Vehicle Destination Charging Grants, WA Charge Up Grant & more offer eligible site owners the opportunity to have a charger installed at no cost, with Charge Point Operators serving as the hardware providers, installers, and ongoing owners of the chargers.

 

The Economic Impact of Commercial EV Charging Stations 

As the demand for EVs continue to surge, the installation and expansion of charging infrastructure present a range of positive economic impacts for local communities, industries, and businesses.

Stimulating Economic Activity in Commercial Areas:

The presence of EV charging stations can act as a magnet for EV owners, drawing them into commercial areas where they are likely to spend time while their vehicles charge. Businesses near charging points, such as retail stores, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues, can benefit from the increased foot traffic, leading to greater customer engagement and higher sales. This, in turn, stimulates the local economy by boosting revenue for nearby businesses.

Creation of New Jobs for Electricians:

The installation of commercial EV charging stations require skilled electricians, and provide them with numerous benefits. Such as the increased demand for their expertise and the ability to specialise in EV infrastructure. This growing industry not only provides workers with a great volume of projects but provides them with higher paying opportunities due to the scale of the installations, alongside continual maintenance and upgrade work.

Contribution to a Sustainable Economy:

The expansion of EV charging stations contribute to the broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable economy. This shift not only helps to mitigate the effects of climate change but also opens the door for new “green” industries and innovations, such as renewable energy integration with charging networks. By fostering sustainable practices, the economy benefits from long-term growth potential in environmentally friendly technologies.

 

In summary, the installation of residential and commercial EV chargers in Australia presents a wealth of financial, operational, and environmental benefits that are increasingly vital in today’s shifting landscape. Residential chargers offer convenience and cost savings for homeowners, ensuring that you can charge your vehicles efficiently at home. Meanwhile, commercial chargers not only enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty but also drive economic activity in local areas, creating jobs and fostering a sustainable economy.

As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, embracing EV charging infrastructure is not just a forward-thinking decision; it’s a necessary step toward a greener future. Government incentives further bolster this transition, making the installation of chargers more accessible for both households and businesses. By investing in EV charging solutions, you are not only adapting to the changing automotive landscape but also paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable environment for further generations to come.

 

At Ocular Charging, we’re dedicated to improving the way  you power your electric vehicle (EV).   

As we move toward cleaner energy solutions, we believe your EV chargers should easily integrate into your home. By using excess solar power, you can save money while also benefiting from a smart load balancing system that protects your home’s electrical supply.  

Our mission is to give you complete control over your charging experience, ensuring that clean energy is efficiently directed to your vehicle. Here’s how Ocular Charging is making solar EV charging smarter and more sustainable:  

With more homeowners adopting solar energy, many are also using this power to charge their EVs. Our chargers are designed to be compatible with your home’s solar setup. The chargers are equipped with CT (current transformer) clamps, which monitor the amount of energy available in your home’s power system. This real-time feedback helps prevent electrical overload.

On cloudy days or when your solar panels aren’t producing enough energy, our smart chargers enable you to switch to an efficient and cost-effective mode, drawing only what’s needed from your home’s grid.

Smart Control & Freedom at Your Fingertips 

Our app gives you full control over your charging experience, allowing you to:

• Schedule Charging: Set charging times that work best for your routine, ensuring your vehicle is always ready when you need it.
• Monitor Energy Usage: Track how much energy your EV is consuming and understand how solar power is contributing to your charging process.
• Optimise Solar Usage: See how solar energy flows into your vehicle and adjust settings for maximum savings.

With detailed insights into your energy consumption, our app allows you to manage your charging with ease.

Three Charging Modes for Every Need 

Our solar chargers offer three distinct modes, tailored to match your energy needs and solar availability:

Solar Only Mode: This mode allows the charger to use only excess solar energy. This is ideal when your solar system is generating a lot of extra power. The example below shows a home with –21.9Amps of excess solar energy which is where this mode would work best because there is a clear and consistent surplus of solar power. On cloudy days or when your solar system isn’t generating enough extra power (when surplus hovers between 0 and –8 amps) it is recommended to use other modes of charging listed below.

Solar Assist:  This mode balances solar energy and grid power by charging at a baseline of 6 amps, drawing from the grid while utilising any available excess solar energy. It avoids the issue of the charger starting and stopping during a session due to fluctuations in solar energy generation, which can happen in Solar Only mode when there is not enough energy surplus. In the example below, a three-phase charger has two phases exporting 10 Amps of solar energy, while one phase is only exporting 1 Amp. Despite this imbalance, Solar Assist still allows charging by pulling in the right amount of power—charging at 6 Amps per phase. The difference between Solar assist and solar only is that solar assist will always charge at a minimum of 6 amps, no matter how much excess solar is being produced across the phases. This allows it to be more flexible and allows charging even when one or more phases produce less than the threshold of 8 amps.

Fast Mode: This mode is recommended when the vehicle needs to be charged at the fastest rate possible. Fast mode pulls power from any available source, whether it’s from solar energy or grid power to deliver the fastest charge. This mode is ideal when you’re in the need to charge quickly, or when there is no excess solar power available, such as during the evening or on cloudy days.

One of the standout features of Ocular Charging is its ability to adjust energy usage to your household’s energy demand. As daily activities in your home begin—like using appliances, lighting, or HVAC (Heating ventilation and air conditioning) systems—our charger automatically lowers its energy consumption to prevent overloading. As your household energy demand drops, the charger ramps up its speed to ensure your EV is fully charged.  

This intelligent energy management guarantees that your home’s electricity supply is always balanced and kept safe, preventing unnecessary strain on the system while optimising your charging experience.  

Driving Innovation, Powering Sustainability  

At Ocular Charging, we’re not just about providing EV chargers—we’re about driving innovation and powering sustainability. Our solar-integrated charging systems are designed to make green energy accessible and efficient for everyone. By helping you make the most of your solar power, we’re paving the way toward a greener, smarter future.  

Join us on this journey toward cleaner energy and a more sustainable tomorrow!  

Sales@ocularcharging.com.au 

1300 912 650

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an integral part of Australia’s shift towards sustainable transportation. As the country progresses toward net-zero emissions, the need for efficient EV charging infrastructure has never been more critical. Let’s explore the current landscape and what the next decade holds for EV charging in Australia.

 

What Are We Currently Doing?

In 2023, Australia introduced its National Electric Vehicle Strategy, a comprehensive framework designed to accelerate the adoption of EVs while supporting the development of essential infrastructure. One of the key elements of this strategy is the introduction of a fuel efficiency standard. This standard sets mandatory limits on the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions that vehicles can emit, encouraging car manufacturers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles and promote the adoption of EVs.

By implementing these standards, Australia aims to reduce the dominance of high-emission internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and provide consumers with cleaner, more efficient options. The fuel efficiency standard not only pushes automakers to innovate but also makes EVs a more appealing choice for Australians by leveling the playing field in terms of costs and environmental benefits.

Beyond the fuel efficiency standard, the National Electric Vehicle Strategy supports various initiatives, including battery recycling, infrastructure planning, and the rollout of EV-ready designs in apartment buildings. Additionally, the government is training emergency service workers to handle EV-related incidents safely, ensuring a smooth transition to an electric future.

On the infrastructure side, Australia is expanding its EV charging network through programs like the EV Fast Charging Grant, which are driving the installation of fast chargers across New South Wales. These grants aim to reduce range anxiety by ensuring that EV drivers have easy access to charging points, encouraging more people to switch to electric vehicles.

 

What’s Next?

Looking forward, Australia has set ambitious targets to drive the future of EVs. By 2030, the country aims to have EVs make up 52% of new car sales, a significant increase from today’s figures. This is part of a larger vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and the widespread adoption of EVs will be crucial to this goal.

To accommodate this rapid growth, the Australian Electric Vehicle Industry is working toward the ambitious goal of having one million EVs on Australian roads by 2027. This will require not only an increase in EV availability but also a significant expansion of the charging infrastructure. We can expect to see a surge in the number of fast-charging stations nationwide, with a focus on urban areas, highways, and even remote regions to ensure that all Australians have access to reliable EV charging.

The Role of Emergency Technologies 

Technological advancements will also play a key role in shaping the future of EV charging infrastructure. Emerging technologies like wireless charging, ultra-fast charging, and smart grid integration are set to transform the EV charging experience, making it more efficient, convenient, and user-friendly.

• Wireless Charging: Wireless or inductive charging is being discussed as a potential breakthrough in the coming years. This technology allows EVs to charge without physical cables by using electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between the charging pad on the ground and the vehicle. Wireless charging will simplify the charging process, especially for drivers who park in garages or public lots regularly, as they will only need to park their vehicle over a charging pad to begin the process. As this technology evolves, it may become a standard feature in residential and commercial parking spaces, streamlining the charging experience.

 

• Ultra-fast Charging: While fast chargers are already becoming more common, the next decade will likely see the rise of ultra-fast charging. These chargers can deliver significantly higher power outputs, allowing EVs to charge to 80% in under 10 minutes, similar to refuelling a petrol vehicle. This innovation will make long-distance travel in EVs more practical, reducing the time spent at charging stations and easing concerns about range. With developments in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries, the efficiency and safety of ultra-fast charging will continue to improve, further increasing the appeal of EVs.

 

• Vehicle to Grid – Smart Grid Integration: Smart grid technology will allow EVs and charging stations to communicate with the broader electrical grid, optimising energy usage and balancing demand. Through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, EVs will be able to send stored energy back to the grid during peak times, helping to stabilise the electricity supply. This means EV owners could not only charge their cars but also contribute to a more resilient and efficient energy grid, potentially reducing energy costs. In the long run, smart grid integration will be essential as EV numbers grow, ensuring that the grid can handle increased demand while making renewable energy sources like solar and wind a more significant part of the energy mix.

 

These innovations will make the EV charging experience faster, more convenient, and more environmentally friendly, encouraging wider adoption. As Australia continues to invest in charging infrastructure, the integration of these technologies will be crucial in meeting the growing needs of EV drivers while supporting the nation’s transition to a cleaner energy future.

 

In conclusion, Australia is well on its way to creating a robust EV charging infrastructure, with a clear roadmap outlined in the National Electric Vehicle Strategy. The introduction of fuel efficiency standards and the continued development of charging infrastructure are critical steps in achieving the country’s long-term sustainability goals. With ambitious targets set for the next decade, Australia is poised to embrace a cleaner, more sustainable future powered by electric vehicles.

 

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us:

Sales@ocularcharging.com.au 

1300 912 650

Explore the lifecycle and sustainable disposal of EV chargers as they reach their end of life.

 

Understanding the Lifecycle of EVSE chargers

EV chargers have a lifecycle that consists of several stages. The first stage is manufacturing, where the chargers are produced using various components and materials. Once manufactured, the chargers are installed at charging stations or in homes and businesses to charge electric vehicles.

Unfortunately, over time, EV chargers may start to show signs of wear and tear, requiring maintenance and repairs. This is the second stage of their lifecycle, where they should be regularly serviced to ensure optimal performance and safety. To prolong this stage, we recommend regular maintenance and upkeep of your charger to ensure it can last as long as possible. However, there comes a point when elements of the charger reach the end of their useful life and can no longer be repaired or maintained. At Ocular we prioritise durability and sustainability. Our products are designed with modular components to extend and prolong a charger’s life, therefore meaning that individual parts can be replaced instead of the whole charger. This ensures you do not need to replace the whole charger, and it can be simply fixed by replacing one part. We keep sustainability practices in mind from start to finish when designing our chargers and have strived to make them 100% recyclable, achieving a remarkable recyclability rate of 93%.

Understanding the lifecycle of EV chargers is important in order to develop sustainable practices for their disposal and to minimise their environmental impact.

 

Environmental Impacts of Discarding EV Chargers

Discarding EV chargers without proper consideration for the environment can have significant impacts. These chargers often contain hazardous materials and components that can be harmful if not handled correctly.

To mitigate these environmental impacts, it is crucial to implement proper recycling and disposal practices for EV chargers, promoting a circular economy where materials are reused and recycled to minimise waste and resource consumption.

 

Best Practices for Recycling and Disposing of Old EV Chargers

When it comes to recycling and disposing of old EV chargers, there are several best practices to follow to ensure their proper handling and minimise their environmental impact.

Firstly, it is important to identify local recycling programs or facilities that accept EV chargers. These programs are equipped to handle the proper disassembly and recycling of the chargers, ensuring that hazardous materials are managed appropriately.

At our sister company, EVSE, we have established comprehensive recycling programs for used and end-of-life charging stations and components. These programs ensure that valuable materials are recovered and reused, reducing the need for new raw materials.

 

Innovations and Future Trends in EV Charger Sustainability 

As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the need for sustainable EV chargers and charging infrastructure. This has led to the development of various innovations and future trends in EV charger sustainability.

One of the key innovations is the integration of renewable energy sources into charging infrastructure. This includes the use of solar panels and wind turbines to generate clean energy for charging electric vehicles. By utilising renewable energy, EV chargers can reduce their carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.

Another trend is the implementation of smart charging technology. Smart chargers have the ability to communicate with the electric grid and adjust their charging patterns based on factors such as electricity demand, grid capacity, and renewable energy availability. This helps to optimise charging efficiency and reduce strain on the grid.

Furthermore, there is a growing focus on the development of biodegradable and recyclable materials for EV chargers. By utilising sustainable materials, such as bioplastics and recyclable metals, the environmental impact of charger production and disposal can be minimised.

These innovations and future trends in EV charger sustainability are essential in creating more sustainable and efficient charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

 

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us:

Sales@ocularcharging.com.au 

1300 912 650

At Ocular Charging, we believe that DC charging is the cornerstone of the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Australia and New Zealand. Beyond simply selling chargers, our goal is to make the switch to EVs as easy as possible and get you back on the road. With the widest selection of dependable, adjustable, and modular charging stations in Australia and New Zealand, we’re ready to grow with your evolving charging needs.  

 

A Comprehensive Range of DC Fast Chargers

Ocular Charging offers an extensive range of DC fast chargers, spanning from 30kW to an ultrafast 420kW. Whether you are investing in fleet electrification of light or heavy vehicles or public charging, we have a DC solution that is appropriate for any application. You can be sure that you are always covered as our chargers pair with any EV available on the market.  

 

 Features Delivering Maximum Value 

OCCP Compatibility 

Certified OCPP-based charger management solutions are compatible with every one of our DC chargers. This makes it possible to handle chargers and end-user payments in detail. You may increase your revenue and give users the most easy tap-and-go payment option by adding a Nyax credit card module for public billing.  

 

Agnostic Load Control 

Agnostic load control is also made possible by OCPP compatibility, allowing you to securely regulate every charger on your network. From the beginning, our range is intended to be expendable. Together AC and DC chargers can be connected to sophisticated, dynamic load control technologies created in partnership with CSIRO. This setup can easily accommodate the installation of more chargers as you proceed on your electrification journey.  

 

Industry-Leading CCS2 Cables 

Industry-leading Phoenix Contact CCS2 cables, with adjustable cable lengths, are standard on all models. Two cars can be charged simultaneously on all dual-port versions, sharing the charger’s total power and making the most use of your infrastructure.  

 

Introducing our Chargers Models

Ocular Titan Series  

The Ocular Titan series provides the finest values in DC charging available on the market, combining amazing speed with a small and lightweight design. There are two configurations of the Titan: a 60kW version with two charging connections and a 30kW version with just one port. Its wall – or pedestal mounting options make it a dependable, reasonably priced, and simple-to-install solution for public and commercial charging applications.  

 

Ocular Atlas Series  

The Atlas series improves flexibility and speed of charging. To improve the user experience, it comes with an integrated cable management system and is available in sizes ranging from 60kW to 180kW. For individuals who require a more versatile and high-capacity charging option, this series is ideal. 

 

Ocular Atlas Ultra-Fast Series  

The Ocular Atlas Ultrafast series comes in combinations ranging from 240kW to 420kW for the maximum capacity. This approach promises to quickly restore fleet cars or users’ access to the road. It has a strong cable management system in the swing-arm form that makes charging quick and simple.  

 

Suitable and Serviceable Design

System serviceability is essential to Ocular Charging’s design philosophy. Our goal is to offer long-lasting, suitable infrastructure. Every one of our chargers is constructed from modular components, which include sturdy DC modules made to endure the harsh Australian and New Zealand climates. Maintenance is made easier by service engineers’ easy access to all interior components. Additionally, we locally keep all spare components in stock to maximise the uptime of your infrastructure.  

 

Strong Local Support

With a robust local support staff at Ocular Charging, you can count on dependable help when you need it. You can be sure that your infrastructure for charging will always be operational and effective.  

 

Join Us on Your Electrification Journey

We offer a charger for every need. Get in touch with us or any of our dependable resellers, and allow us to assist you with your electrification journey. Please visit us at https://ocularcharging.com.au/ for further details. We look forward to seeing you on the road soon! 

 

Have any further questions please contact us: 

Sales@ocularcharging.com.au 

1300 912 650 

With EV sales in Australia rapidly growing you will want to know how much it will cost before you choose to make the switch to electric.

We get down to the real numbers to find out just how much it costs to charge an electric vehicle. It is important to remember, the battery size and charging rate of all models of electric cars is different therefore will vary in charging time and energy consumed. Prices will also vary as energy rates change – just like petrol from a service station.

The Cost of charging an electric car is found by multiplying the size of the battery by the applicable electricity rate (e.g. 60kWh x 0.45 per kWh = $27).

Calculations are based on average usable battery capacity of 65kWh.

Level 2 chargers (Home Charging stations):

For level 2 charging stations, the average charging costs are

*average usage rates of flagship market from five leading electricity retailers as of October 2022

 

State	Average Electricity rates	Average Full battery  Cost	Average Cost per 100km
VIC	21.12c/kWh	$13.73	$3.80
QLD	25.45c/kWh	$16.54	$4.58
NSW	28.54c/kWh	$18.55	$5.14
SA	36.13c/kWh	$23.48	$6.50

With petrol pricing spiking the average national price of petrol sitting at $1.71 per litre. Using 11L/100km, petrol will cost $18.81 per 100km, at least 3x the price of electric charging.

 

Level 3 Public Charging Station (DC Fast Charging):

Rapid fast chargers use DC power to charge your car battery quicker, this increase in speed also increases price.

DC Rapid Chargers allow for an extremely fast charge rate, with their power capacities ranging from 40 kW all the way up to 350kW. A full charge can hence take between 10 minutes to 1 hour to complete. Charging at a DC station can cost you between 40 to 60 cents per kWh.

Electricity Cost	Average Full Battery Costs	Average Cost / 100 km	Average Cost  /  km
40 cents / kWh	$26	$7.20	$0.072
60 cents / kWh	$39	$10.80	$0.108

According to Transport for NSW, EVs are significantly cheaper to run in terms of fuel and maintenance. Overall, for the everyday driving needs of the average Australian home charging should be sufficient and the most economical method for charging your electric car.

What is the Destination Charging Grant?

In 2022 the NSW government, partnered with the Electric Vehicle council, introduced an Electric Vehicle charging grant to invest $20 million in EV chargers for tourist destinations across regional NSW. The grant can be applied to businesses installing chargers from the approved list of AC EV chargers and EV charger software, including Ocular IQ Commercial and IQ Dual Port Tower. These grant approved chargers available through our distribution partner, EVSE. The first round ends November but multiple funding rounds will be available until 2024.

According to NSW Gov:

The grants will fund the following for up to 4 EV chargers per site:

• 75% towards the cost of an eligible 7 kW and/or 22 kW electric vehicle charger(s)
• 75% towards the cost of installation (capped at $1,000 per charger)
• 50% towards a 2-year EV charger software subscription from the EV charger software list.

To be eligible, you must be:

• located in an eligible regional NSW local government area (LGA)
• an approved destination type
• have no more than one existing EV charger installed.
• installing chargers where accessible to the public

How does the grant work?

Prepare for application and check your eligibility here. If your business meets the criteria, you will be able for apply for the EV chargers grant here.  Ensure you choose the charger best suited to your site and budget and it is best to speak to a licensed electrician prior to application to understand the specific installation requirements and costs for the site, charger installations vary depending on the layout. However, 75% of the installation costs is covered by the grant.

For businesses installing less than three co-funded chargers or a destination with less than 100 parking spaces, a software subscription is not required but still available for those who want to apply. More than 3 chargers or 100 parking space must purchase the 2-year software subscription.

The NSW government will notify successful applicants within 6 weeks of the application, if unsuccessful, reapplication is accepted in the next round of grants. Chargers are required to be installed within 4 months of the successful application. Payment will be made once the chargers have been successfully installed to the site within the given time frame.

How does the grant help your business?

Australia is starting to catch up to electric vehicle adoptions seen in other areas like Europe so investing now will future proof your business for the transition to electric. Investing in electric vehicle charging will allow your business to attract people to your location looking for a charging spot from online charging location maps. As the AC chargers do not charge as fast as DC, visitors will be at your location longer meaning more potential for greater revenue for any business. The NSW grant includes a range of software including our favourite, Exploren, which allows you to generate another source of revenue through a billing service. You can easily set the charging costs and billing is automated, meaning greater profit and less work!

Contact us or our partner EVSE to install Ocular Chargers for your business.