AER consults on Essential Energy ring-fencing waiver for 300 pole-mounted EV chargers in regional NSW
By Eve
The Australian Energy Regulator has opened consultation on granting Essential Energy a ring-fencing waiver to install, own and maintain 300 kerbside EV chargers integrated into composite streetlight columns across regional New South Wales. Under the proposed infrastructure-only model, Essential Energy would deploy 7kW white-labelled chargers through open tender and lease the infrastructure to chargepoint operators, without entering retail charging or setting prices. Ring-fencing rules normally prevent monopoly network providers from using market power in competitive energy sectors.
Why it matters: The waiver could unlock a scalable procurement pathway for regional kerbside charging by separating infrastructure ownership from retail operations, potentially enabling CPOs to access ready-built sites without capital outlay for poles and grid connections. If approved, the model may set a precedent for other Australian distribution network operators to deploy charging infrastructure under similar lease arrangements.