Z Energy (Z) has welcomed the Government’s $120 million targeted EV funding package as part of the Wellbeing Budget 2023.
As one of New Zealand’s major EV charging providers, Z was already working at scale and pace to build a network of on-the-go charging infrastructure at its retail service stations.
The energy company believes this targeted funding will support major charging providers to accelerate critical charging infrastructure needed across the country.
“Z is already leveraging its existing network of service stations to build an EV charging network for Aotearoa and plans to have EV chargers available across 20 percent of Z service stations by the end of this year,” said Lindis Jones, Z’s CEO.
Jones continued, stating that a scaled domestic EV charging network that enables accessible, affordable, convenient, and reliable charging solutions to meet the needs of drivers now and into the future is a core component of the transition to a low-carbon economy.
“This targeted support, alongside a National EV Charging Strategy that is currently being developed, is a real win and will enable the private sector to collaborate with the Government to progress the delivery of EV infrastructure New Zealanders need.”
For businesses like Z to continue investing in and delivering private and public charging, the Government must also ensure the regulatory settings are fit-for-purpose and address market failures.
Lindis shared that the business was looking forward to continuing to work constructively with the Government as it works to address and resolve the barriers to the network roll-out and support New Zealanders through this energy transition.
