Good news is on the horizon for new strata property owners with the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) issuing an advisory note mandating that new buildings must be equipped to facilitate electric vehicle (EV) charging. This is a giant step forward in supporting the nation’s shift towards electric mobility.
Adapting Existing Strata Properties for EV Charging
However, the situation is mixed for those residing in existing multi-occupancy buildings. While some proactive EV owners have successfully influenced their body corporate to adopt EV charging solutions, others encounter significant resistance.
One EV enthusiast shared a tale of bureaucratic challenges, detailing how he navigated through a maze of meetings and correspondence just to install a simple power point. Conversely, another resorted to a more confrontational approach, threatening legal action to obtain installation approval, only to have the charger positioned inconveniently on the property.
Leveraging Influence Within the Body Corporate
One interesting strategy involved an EV owner becoming an active member of the building’s body corporate to advocate for sustainable upgrades, including solar panels and EV charging stations. Despite initial resistance, a menacing mention of taking the issue to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal spurred a compromise, though not without placing the charger in an out-of-the-way location.
Challenges in Highrise Installations
Arran Blomfield, from regenEV, reveals that installing EV chargers in highrise buildings is not getting easier, citing complexities in working with various committees and increasing regulatory hurdles. Despite the growth of EVs, with Australia seeing 10% of new vehicles being electric, the challenges and costs for highrise installations are escalating.
Overcoming Resistance and Managing Power Load
In an interview, Arran suggests a tactical approach for EV owners: start by requesting a regular power point and then gradually transition to an EV charger. He highlights the necessity of load management software that ensures power distribution without overloading the building’s electric capacity, prioritizing energy delivery to the vehicles with lower battery levels.
Alternative Solutions and Due Diligence for EV Owners
Arran also mentioned a startup’s innovative model, offering charging services at no cost to the body corporate, yet this concept has yet to find takers. He advises potential EV owners in strata buildings to thoroughly assess the feasibility of charging installation beforehand, checking for accessible meters and seeking pre-approval if possible.
While steps are being taken to modernize building codes for EV readiness in new constructions, the path is steeper for adapting existing strata properties. Despite the challenges, it is clear that the drive for EV-friendly infrastructure is gaining momentum, with dedicated professionals like Arran Blomfield forging ahead to usher in a cleaner and more electric-friendly future.
