What Australia can learn from Norway on EVs & charging

Norway has emerged as a leader in the transport transition, with a high rate of EV adoption and robust charging infrastructure. Australia can learn valuable lessons from Norway’s success to accelerate its own EV transition.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, as of January 2022, there were approximately 23,000 electric vehicles on Australian roads, representing just 0.3% of all registered vehicles in the country. In contrast, Norway leads the world in EV adoption, with over 80% of new cars sold in 2021 being electric or hybrid vehicles.

One reason for Norway’s success is the country’s commitment to incentives and policies that encourage EV adoption. For example, the Norwegian government offers tax exemptions, reduced tolls and free parking to EV drivers. Additionally, EVs are exempt from Norway’s steep registration tax, making them significantly cheaper to purchase than traditional petrol-powered vehicles.

Australia could benefit from similar policies to incentivise EV adoption. The Australian government has already announced a package of measures to encourage EV uptake, including a commitment to phase out traditional petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035. However, more can be done to support the transition, such as offering financial incentives to purchase EVs, reducing registration fees and offering incentives to businesses to install EV charging infrastructure.

Another factor that has contributed to Norway’s success is the country’s extensive charging infrastructure. According to the Norwegian EV Association, there are over 12,000 public charging stations across Norway, equating to roughly one charging point for every eight EVs. In comparison, Australia has approximately 2,300 public charging stations, with one charging point for every 14 EVs.

Norway’s success in building a robust charging infrastructure can be attributed to a combination of government support and private sector investment. The Norwegian government has provided funding for the installation of public charging points, and private companies have also invested heavily in charging infrastructure to meet growing demand.

Australia can learn from Norway’s approach by providing funding for the installation of more public charging stations and encouraging private investment in charging infrastructure. Additionally, Australia could follow Norway’s lead in promoting the installation of home charging stations, which can make EV ownership more convenient for consumers.

Finally, Norway’s success in EV adoption can also be attributed to a strong focus on education and awareness. The Norwegian government has launched campaigns to educate consumers about the benefits of EVs and how to use them, and has also worked with businesses to promote the use of EVs in their fleets.

Australia could benefit from a similar approach to education and awareness. Many Australians are still unfamiliar with the benefits of EVs and may be hesitant to make the switch from traditional petrol-powered vehicles. A comprehensive education and awareness campaign could help dispel myths about EVs, promote their environmental benefits and encourage consumers to make the switch.

Norway’s success in EV adoption and charging infrastructure provides valuable lessons for Australia as it seeks to accelerate its own transition to sustainable transportation. By implementing policies and incentives to encourage EV adoption, building a robust charging infrastructure and promoting education and awareness, Australia can follow in Norway’s footsteps and become a leader in the global transition to sustainable transportation.