Network owner to install 100 kerbside EV chargers, despite opposition
Victorian network owner CitiPower, Powercor and United Energy (CPU) will soon launch a five-year kerbside EV charger trial, approved by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER).
The trial allows CPU to install and operate 100 pole-mounted chargers but only under strict conditions to protect competition and ensure transparency.
CPU must charge itself the same pole access fees it charges commercial operators and publicly disclose those rates.
The first 10 sites will be live by the end of 2025, with the remaining 90 installed in 2026. Retailers will lease access and operate the chargers.
Industry rivals argued the waiver breaches ring-fencing rules, giving the monopoly network an unfair advantage in the emerging public charging market.
The AER added safeguards, including publishing performance data and ensuring at least five chargers are vehicle-to-grid capable.
Critics like Evie Networks and Nexa Advisory warned the move could distort competition, saying the real barriers to EV charging are high connection costs and delays.
CPU defended the trial, saying pole-mounted chargers can be delivered faster, ease network strain, and support residents without off-street parking.
The AER insists the $1.2 million trial must not impact consumer bills, though experts question how that will be monitored.
The regulator says the trial will test how kerbside charging can manage rising EV demand efficiently - without costly new network upgrades.