Kathryn McCoy 
PowerNet has installed four electric vehicle (EVs) charging stations around Southland as part of a St John EV health shuttle trial, PowerNet GM New Energy Development and Strategy Kavi Singh says.
St John is transitioning its Southland health shuttle fleet to lower emissions vehicles and as part of this they are trialling EV health shuttles. To support St John and electrification of transport, PowerNet has agreed to sponsor four charging stations at St John’s Winton, Otautau, Invercargill and Bluff stations Singh said.
“We’re really keen to learn more about managing charging stations and the likely demands on them from EVs,” he said.
St John launched its EV shuttle trial at an event in Invercargill today (June 25).
On-premise EV chargers mean vehicles can be charged up on site, and smart energy management functionality of the charging station means vehicles can be charged without the need for major electrical capacity upgrades.
Singh said PowerNet’s sponsorship of the EV charging stations aligns neatly with its partnership with St John helping improve health and safety outcomes of PowerNet customers in Southland and Otago.
“PowerNet supports electrification of transport in Southland and this sponsorship is another important opportunity to build knowledge around how EVs are being used, and their future potential, in the region.”
Gaining more understanding around the capabilties of EVs is at the heart of PowerNet’s efforts to help consumers connect with future transport opportunities.
Singh said many Southland businesses were exploring opportunities around converting fleet vehicles to EVs.
“PowerNet is excited to be leading the way in the introduction and use of EVs in southern New Zealand. For households, communities and businesses, driving an EV is one way they can all contribute to a cleaner, greener New Zealand – and potentially save money too.”
If you would like to discuss some opportunities we have to offer or to discuss your EV energy requirement needs, please email EV@powernet.co.nz
This month the Government announced it was taking action in line with the advice of the Climate Change Commission to increase the uptake of low emission vehicles by introducing a range of measures that will help meet New Zealand’s 2050 carbon neutral target and create jobs to support the economic recovery. One such measure, is the introduction of a rebate scheme that is applicable to new and used EVs that is being registered in New Zealand for the first time. This scheme starts 1st July 2021.
