Search: EVSE

A NSW Legislative Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure report, released on Thursday, cautions that allowing the state's three major electricity distributors (Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy and Essential Energy) to lead the EV charging rollout risks creating a monopoly that would raise power bills for all consumers, not just EV owners. The committee heard from dozens of witnesses across five hearings, with RACQ and charger company EVSE both warning that distributor dominance would stifle competition, deter private investment and distort the market.

Why it matters: The findings signal potential regulatory barriers to utility ownership of charging assets in New South Wales, shaping procurement strategies for CPOs and infrastructure investors. If adopted, the recommendations could preserve a competitive market for independent charge point operators and equipment suppliers across Australia's most populous state.

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is selling subsidised smart home chargers in southeast Queensland, with a 7 kW single-phase unit priced at $95 and a 22 kW three-phase model at $379 after an $1100 rebate funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). Installation costs add $1370 to $1470, bringing total outlays to around $1415 and $1849 respectively. The limited-time offer covers 1.48 million households in the Energex distribution network across Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Logan and Toowoomba, with chargers linked to a demand flexibility platform for grid optimisation.

Why it matters: The ARENA backed scheme demonstrates how government subsidies can drive residential charge-point uptake at scale, creating a potential template for other Australian networks. For installers and hardware suppliers, the 1.48 million household footprint represents a significant near-term pipeline, though the limited-time structure may compress delivery schedules.

Test equipment maker Chroma has introduced the Chroma 8000 EV and EVSE automated test system, designed for simultaneous multi-connector testing of DC charging equipment, EV compatibility validation and liquid-cooled high-current charging tests. Paired with the Chroma 80713 simulator, the system supports testing against both ISO 15118-2 and ISO 15118-20 requirements, enabling interoperability and communication protocol validation across both versions of the standard. ISO 15118-20 extends the mainstream ISO 15118-2 framework with support for Plug and Charge, wireless power transfer, bidirectional power transfer, Megawatt Charging System applications, Dynamic and Scheduled charging modes, and Transport Layer Security 1.3.

Why it matters: The system addresses critical testing needs for next-generation charging infrastructure, including liquid-cooled high-power charging and bidirectional capabilities that enable vehicle-to-grid services. For CPOs and equipment procurers, validated ISO 15118-20 compliance ensures interoperability with emerging EV models and grid-responsive charging strategies.

Lamppost charging specialist Voltpost has formed a strategic partnership with Connecticut based EVSE LLC to manufacture its next generation Voltpost Air lamppost EV charger. EVSE has completed pilot projects with municipalities and utilities including the Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting. Voltpost has hired James Everley, who deployed 2,000 lamppost chargers for Ubitricity in the UK, to lead US business development.

Why it matters: The partnership signals a manufacturing and deployment push for lamppost charging infrastructure in the US market, with proven UK expertise now targeting American municipalities and utilities. Voltpost's few hour installation model and existing pilot track record with LA authorities positions the technology as a scalable procurement option for cities seeking curbside charging solutions.