Summary
- Energex released results of Queensland Household Energy Survey, showing interest in EVs
- 46% of survey participants have solar power installed on rooftops
- 59% indicated they would consider an electric vehicle for their next purchase
- Government subsidy of AU$6000 per car has been exhausted, affecting EV purchases
- Queensland aiming for 50% EV target by 2030, with surge in EV sales under ZEV Rebate Scheme
Article
Energex has released the results of its latest Queensland Household Energy Survey, which includes a section on Electric Vehicles (EVs). The survey found that 46% of respondents have solar power installed on their rooftops, with many intending to purchase and install solar in the near future. Additionally, 59% of participants indicated they would consider an EV for their next car purchase within the next 3 years, although this is down from the previous year’s survey results. South East Queensland residents were more likely to consider purchasing an EV compared to those in less densely populated areas.
The government subsidy of AU$6000 per EV has been exhausted, but with a current price war among Australian EV importers, discounts are still available. The survey revealed that EV buyers tend to be under 30 years old, have high incomes, live in cities, and use third-party providers for charging. Most EV owners charge their vehicles during the day from solar or overnight from the grid, with only a small percentage charging during the evening peak. There is a federal tax incentive for leasing an EV, which may contribute to the high number of younger individuals and city dwellers purchasing EVs.
Queensland is following the national trend with approximately 10% penetration of EVs, split between 8% battery electric and 2% plug-in hybrid. The survey indicated that most EV owners charge at home during the day, with some opportunities to expand the charging network at workplaces and schools. The exhausted funds from the Zero Emission Vehicle Rebate Scheme in Queensland have led to a dramatic increase in EV sales over the past two years, with a goal of reaching 50% EV penetration by 2030.
The Queensland government plans to purchase only ZEVs for the state fleet by 2026, with new TransLink-funded buses being zero-emission starting in 2025 in South East Queensland. The state has upcoming elections, but both major parties seem to support the emissions reduction plans. As more Queenslanders turn to solar for energy, the future looks promising for electric vehicles in the state. With increased availability of EV models and growing infrastructure, the transition to electric transportation is well underway in Queensland.
Overall, the survey results reflect a positive shift towards renewable energy and electric vehicles in Queensland. With a high percentage of households considering solar installation and EV purchases, as well as government support for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, the state is on track to achieve its goals for a sustainable energy future. By leveraging solar power for charging EVs and expanding the charging network, Queensland is paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient transportation system.
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