The Central Coast is powering up with 17 new electric vehicle (EV) charger sites, featuring 30 ports to be installed across the region.
The $20M EV Destination Charging grants program is rolling out about 1,300 EV charge ports at more than 500 sites, ensuring convenient charging options for both visitors and locals statewide.
The chargers will complement the 189 fast-charging stations that the NSW Government has allocated funding to under the NSW EV Strategy.
There will be a fast-charging station funded every 100km along all major regional routes across NSW.
The program has seen a diverse range of applications from tourism businesses and councils, with accommodation operators such as motels, hotels and caravan parks, leading the way in securing funding.
New Central Coast charger site locations include Budgewoi, Kulnura, Pretty Beach, West Gosford and Wyoming where they will be installed in a mix of motels, hotels, hospitality venues and other places where visitors and locals flock.
Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said the move would be a boon for tourism in the region.
“By expanding our electric vehicle charging network, we’re not just improving convenience for residents and visitors; we’re also powering our local economy as more EV drivers mean more business for the Central Coast,” he said.
“The NSW Government is also encouraging more people to adopt electric vehicles.
“This transition is a win-win as it benefits our environment and our local community.”
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Electric Vehicles provided a fantastic alternative for environmentally conscious car owners.
“The NSW Government is committed to investing in our EV infrastructure, ensuring that no matter where you travel, charging is available,” she said.
“With more and more drivers switching to electric vehicles, more people are planning their trips around EV charging locations.
“This funding will ensure that the Central Coast continues to be a destination for all travellers, no matter how they travel.”
Round 3 of the grant program is now open to applications, targeting EV charging gaps along established regional NSW road trip routes.
For more information on available funding or businesses, councils or landowners in regional NSW looking to attract more visitors to their destination by hosting an EV charger visit: https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/business-and-industry/programs-grants-and-schemes/electric-vehicles/electric-vehicle-destination