EECA is seeking feedback on proposed new requirements for electric vehicle chargers that will help build a smarter, more flexible electricity system while giving EV owners more opportunities to save on charging costs.
The proposed requirements for smart EV chargers would ensure new chargers sold in New Zealand have the capability to charge at times that work best for both consumers and the electricity system.
EECA Group Manager Policy and Regulations Murray Bell says how and when electricity is used is becoming just as important as how much is used.
"Electric vehicles represent one of New Zealand's biggest opportunities to create a more flexible electricity system," Bell said.
"They are effectively large batteries sitting in driveways for most of the day. Rather than every vehicle automatically charging as soon as it's plugged in, smart charging gives people the flexibility to charge when electricity is cheaper, or when there's plenty of renewable electricity available,” Bell said.
"That can lower household electricity costs while reducing pressure on the electricity system during peak demand. As more New Zealanders adopt electric vehicles, those benefits become increasingly significant."
New Zealand's electricity demand is expected to grow up to 80% by 2050 – managing growth in peak demand through the use of smart devices within a flexible electricity system could save the country billions in avoided infrastructure costs.
The consultation proposes minimum smart functionality for EV chargers sold in New Zealand, including open communication capabilities, demand flexibility functions, interoperability and consumer information requirements.
Bell says the proposed requirements are about making sure today's charging infrastructure is ready for tomorrow's energy system.
"Consumers rightly expect an EV charger purchased today to work with the energy system of tomorrow.
"Getting these foundations in place now will help ensure EV chargers can work with a more flexible electricity system, home energy management systems, rooftop solar and future innovations that give consumers greater control over how they use electricity."
The proposals support the Government's wider work to build a more flexible, resilient electricity system that can accommodate growing demand while helping keep costs down.
EECA is seeking feedback from the public including manufacturers, importers, retailers, installers, electricity sector participants, consumer groups and EV owners.
The consultation is open until 4 September 2026.
Consultation – Proposed requirements for EV chargers | EECA
- The proposed requirements would apply to EV chargers with a maximum output greater than 2.4kW supplied in New Zealand.
- The consultation will inform recommendations to the Minister for Energy and the development of future rules.
- Smart EV chargers can communicate with electricity retailers, networks and other energy management systems to optimise when charging occurs, helping reduce peak electricity demand and potentially lowering charging costs for consumers.