Ku-ring-gai Council Expands EV Charging Network
The Ku-ring-gai Council, located in Sydney’s Northern suburbs, has finalized the locations for 21 new kerbside electric vehicle (EV) chargers. This initiative is part of a significant state government program aimed at expanding charging infrastructure across New South Wales.
The project will see 21 new kerbside EV charging units installed at five key locations within the Ku-ring-gai LGA. These locations were determined following extensive consultation with the local community to ensure optimal placement and accessibility for residents.
State Funding Powers Expansion
These new chargers are a direct result of the NSW government’s EV Kerbside Charging Grants program. This program has allocated $2.8 million to support the installation of charging facilities across 22 local government areas throughout the state.
A crucial aspect of the program is that the chargers will be installed at no direct cost to the council. Funding for the units is provided by the state government, with participating charge point operators also contributing to the rollout.
Addressing Growing EV Adoption
Christine Kay, Mayor of Ku-ring-gai Council, highlighted the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. “Electric vehicles offer reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance costs and reduced air pollution, so it’s no surprise that we are seeing an increase in the number of residents making the switch,” she stated.
Mayor Kay further noted the significant trend within the council’s jurisdiction. “Ku-ring-gai’s EV ownership rates are now triple the state average. At the same time, we have seen registrations for petrol vehicles continue to decline – signalling the continued shift in mindsets.”
To support this transition, the council is actively working to ensure adequate infrastructure is in place. “This transition needs to be supported by the right infrastructure, so Council continues to work with the NSW Government and external providers to ensure there are additional charging points in the right locations across Ku-ring-gai,” added Mayor Kay.
Ku-ring-gai Leads in EV Ownership
Ku-ring-gai Council currently boasts one of the highest rates of electric vehicle ownership in New South Wales. Approximately 5.2 per cent of registered vehicles in the area are electric, a figure more than three times the state average.
This high adoption rate points to a substantial future demand for charging infrastructure. NSW government projections estimate that the council will require as many as 441 kerbside charging ports by the year 2030.
While the council currently operates five public EV chargers, this new rollout significantly expands the available options, with more charging points planned as detailed in the council’s Net Zero hub.
New Charger Locations Announced
The 21 new kerbside EV chargers will be strategically placed in the following areas:
- Gordon: Merriwa Street, McIntyre Street, Moree Street, Ravenswood Avenue
- Killara: Bruce Avenue, Lorne Avenue, Marian Street, Buckingham Road
- East Lindfield: Wellington Sportsground
- Lindfield: Havilah Road, Milray Street, Queen Elizabeth Reserve, Westbourne Road
- Roseville: Victoria Street
These new installations will complement the existing public EV charging facilities managed by the council. Current sites include Lindfield Village Green, North Turramurra Golf Course, Ku-ring-gai Aquatic and Fitness Centre, and Turramurra Library.
The expansion of EV charging infrastructure in Ku-ring-gai signifies a proactive approach to supporting sustainable transport and meeting the growing needs of electric vehicle owners in the region.