ACT Government's Public EV Charging Initiative: A Golden Opportunity for Local Businesses

The ACT Government's push for expanding public EV charging infrastructure presents a unique opportunity for commercial businesses, particularly cafes and shops. As Canberra moves towards a more electric future, forward-thinking business owners can position themselves to benefit from this transition.

The Current Landscape

• The ACT Government is funding the rollout of public EV chargers through grants and rebates.

• As of August 2024, 46 public EV charging stations with 79 charging bays have been installed.

• The government aims to have 180 public EV chargers by 2025.

Why It's the Right Time for Businesses to Act

• Growing EV Market: With the increasing number of EVs on Canberra's roads, there's a rising demand for convenient charging locations.

• Government Support: The ACT Government's funding initiatives make it more financially viable for businesses to install EV chargers.

• First-Mover Advantage: Early adopters can establish themselves as go-to locations for EV charging, potentially increasing foot traffic and customer loyalty.

• Extended Customer Dwell Time: EV charging typically takes longer than refueling a conventional car, providing businesses with opportunities to engage customers for longer periods.

Opportunities for Cafes and Shops

• Attract New Customers: EV owners actively seek out businesses with charging facilities, potentially bringing in a new customer base.

• Increase Revenue: While customers charge their vehicles, they're more likely to make purchases, boosting sales for cafes and shops.

• Enhance Brand Image: Offering EV charging positions businesses as environmentally conscious, appealing to eco-minded consumers.

• Create Loyalty Programs: Businesses can develop EV-specific loyalty programs, encouraging repeat visits and fostering customer retention.

• Diversify Income Streams: Depending on the arrangement, businesses might earn additional revenue from the charging stations themselves.

How to Get Started

• Research: Understand the different types of EV chargers and which would be most suitable for your business location and customer base.

• Apply for Funding: Explore the ACT Government's grant and rebate programs to offset installation costs.

• Plan Strategically: Consider the best placement for chargers to maximize convenience for EV owners and benefit your business.

• Partner with Operators: Look into partnerships with EV charge point operators who might be interested in your location.

• Market Your Services: Once installed, promote your EV charging facilities through various channels to attract EV owners.

Have you considered EV charging for your business?  Contact us today at 02 6130 0808 or click here

The ACT Government's initiative to expand public EV charging infrastructure opens a window of opportunity for local businesses. By acting now, cafes, shops, and other commercial establishments can position themselves at the forefront of Canberra's electric revolution.

This not only supports the territory's sustainability goals but also creates potential for increased foot traffic, longer customer visits, and ultimately, business growth.

As Canberra charges towards its 2025 goal of 180 public EV chargers, businesses that plug into this opportunity early stand to reap significant benefits in the evolving urban landscape.