Accelerating Queensland’s electric vehicle transition

An equitable approach to EV infrastructure planning

Establishing a comprehensive EV charging rollout plan for QGAO was our number one goal, but we made sure this was done in view of broader policy considerations and societal outcomes. The Queensland Government needs to transition its passenger vehicle fleet to EVs by 2026, reach net zero by 2050, and meet several renewable energy targets along the way. 

We focused on decarbonisation opportunities and an equitable approach. We ensured the distribution of chargers provided the greatest benefit to the most people – whether government staff or private EV owners. We highlighted gaps in the public charging network that could be supported by sharing the new government chargers, with the view that the public may be more likely to take up EV use if more chargers were accessible. We also helped the Government think about the wider travel behaviour of its employees, to ensure charging needs are met, but also to consider where other modes of transport could be encouraged over car use.

Sharing and collaboration to maximise EV infrastructure

Planning for the right number of EV chargers and where they need to be requires an understanding of how people use the vehicles, where they drive, how long they drive for, and how they like to charge them. We built user-experience questions into the funding application forms so that the most practical decisions can be made. 

To help maximise the impact of funding and to increase EV charging locations across the state, we explored the potential of agencies sharing chargers and collaborating on their funding applications. It’s possible to have fewer chargers in one location if their use can be well coordinated. This idea was supported by the user code of conduct, which included recommendations such as having booking systems or oversight by local fleet managers.

Fire safety and maintenance strategy to make the most of EV chargers

With EV infrastructure still in the early stages in Australia, QGAO was keen to understand whether they pose any increased fire risk. We undertook a workshop with QGAO to take on board questions, address any concerns, and to educate about risk mitigation. 

Our technical experts built a strategy on what speed of chargers are most effective in different use cases. Based on government employee behaviour, it was clear the fastest, most expensive chargers are not always necessary, and cost-effective overnight chargers are mostly suitable. Our technical experts also provided education on how to maintain charger assets sustainably. 

QGAO is now underway with EV charger funding approvals, benefiting from the clarity and confidence the strategy provides about where chargers should go, how to procure and maintain EV infrastructure, and how to encourage fair use. Our fire safety experts continue to provide guidance in support of the ongoing rollout.