The Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) of Australia submitted a review of the exemptions framework for embedded networks, focusing on the implications for electric vehicle (EV) charging. The EVC, representing the national EV industry, and the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), the national electricity and gas regulator, are key stakeholders in this context. The EVC acknowledges its input in the consultations leading to the draft decision, which suggests that EV charging will continue to be permissible in embedded network settings at both residential (e.g., apartment buildings) and commercial (e.g., shopping centers, commercial precincts) levels. Additionally, EV charging at holiday lets and caravan parks as secondary services will remain possible, with service providers eligible for network exemptions.
The EVC emphasizes future advocacy efforts:
- Competitive Retail Market Access: Ensuring that ChargePoint Operators (CPOs) within embedded networks can access competitive retail markets to maintain low charging prices and equitable allocation of extra charges (e.g., demand or capacity charges). Currently, some embedded network owners require CPOs to use them as their energy supplier, which may not always benefit consumers.
- Embedded Networks for New Residential Builds: Advocating for embedded networks to remain an option for new residential developments, with appropriate safeguards, to facilitate easy and low-cost installation of EV Supply Equipment (EVSE) in carparks, with billing directly to EV owners.
For inquiries, the EVC recommends contacting Michael at office@evc.org.au. The submission underscores the importance of maintaining flexibility in embedded networks to support the growing EV market while ensuring consumer affordability and accessibility.
