In recent years, the drive to make electric vehicle (EV) charging more accessible and efficient in New Zealand has accelerated, with ElectroNet playing an important role in driving this transformation. From designing, constructing, and delivering 14 EV charging sites across the country, ElectroNet is now expanding its focus beyond local projects, setting its sights on even larger initiatives both at home and internationally. This exciting shift is also providing ElectroNet staff with valuable opportunities to work outside the traditional electrical industry, offering new experiences in a rapidly evolving sector.
The project kicked off in May 2023, with ElectroNet collaborating closely with Kwetta, a New Zealand-based startup that specialises in ‘grid first’ EV charging equipment. Kwetta developed a product that connects directly to the 11kV power network, as opposed to the typical 400V, enabling faster and larger-scale EV charging installations as well as providing grid support services, to unlock and optimise existing grid infrastructure.
ElectroNet Network Connections Lead and Principal Consultant Matt Gazzard, the design lead for this project, explained that the unique design demanded specialised high-voltage (HV) expertise, making ElectroNet’s involvement in the design, construction, and ongoing maintenance phases crucial to its success.
“Our team provided expert advice to help Kwetta bring their vision to life, connecting their equipment to the grid and overcoming the technical hurdles that came with integrating a new product into the existing electricity network.”
Through this partnership, Kwetta was able to successfully install their product with Z Energy, marking a significant milestone in the rollout of EV charging stations in New Zealand.
Despite the ambitious nature of the project, several challenges emerged along the way. Matt said one of the biggest obstacles was meeting quick timeframes. “The team had to coordinate and align with multiple stakeholders, including local distribution network operators (EDBs), landlords, and shop owners. With the installation of chargers taking place in public areas, it was essential to ensure that the installation did not disrupt regular operations, like keeping the pies warm in the shop or ensuring people could still access fuel.”
Matt also mentioned that some of the sites lacked documentation, making it difficult to understand the layout of underground assets. “We had to investigate these unknowns carefully, which presented a significant challenge.”
Another big aspect of the job was bringing people together for the project, as there were many from different companies involved in various aspects. “Constant communication was critical for this project success. Weekly Monday meetings ensure all parties were on the same page, while daily discussions keep the momentum going.”
Matt emphasised the critical role of partnerships in the project’s success. “Partnerships and collaboration were the key factors driving the success of this project. We didn’t see the relationships as that of a client-supplier but as a genuine partnership. The involvement of shop owners, landlords, and lines companies was crucial in ensuring the installation processes went smoothly.”
Introducing New Technology: ElectroNet’s Approach to Innovation
Introducing new technology into existing infrastructure is no small feat, but ElectroNet was up to the challenge. With Kwetta’s innovative technology, which was new to the market, Matt explained that they had to quickly learn the ins and outs of the system to effectively integrate it. “We weren’t afraid to dive into the technology headfirst. We worked with Kwetta to understand its importance and ensure it met the necessary standards to integrate smoothly into the existing grid.”
ElectroNet’s work in the EV charging space is just the beginning. As the demand for EVs continues to rise, so too will the need for more efficient and faster charging solutions.
An exciting upcoming project is the installation of EV chargers at a 24-bus depot in Auckland, where ElectroNet will begin building in April. This site will be the first stage of a larger rollout, which will see 120 buses being charged within two years.
ElectroNet is also expanding its footprint to Australia, currently designing large EV charging stations for trucks and cars with Ampol, at Australia’s busiest fuel sites.
Matt, who has been with ElectroNet for seven years, believes the shift to EV charging is an exciting opportunity in New Zealand and abroad. ElectroNet’s support for new technology and its collaboration with Kiwi startups like Kwetta have helped make EV ownership more accessible to New Zealanders.
“It’s another reason to work at ElectroNet. The team was given the opportunity to get involved with this project, which doesn’t fit the mold of traditional electrical practices. We’re given the chance to move beyond traditional electrical work and embrace new technology.”
“The installation of these charging stations has been rewarding because the projects are very public-facing. Sometimes electrical work goes unnoticed, and people just flick the lights on in their house without thinking. The public has provided lots of feedback, and some of them we’ve engaged with to continually improve the charging experience.”
In the future, EV charging will become a more integral part of the energy landscape, supplementing traditional fuel sources and ultimately contributing to the broader energy transition. As more people shift to EVs, the availability of fast, reliable chargers will be a key factor in ensuring the continued success of sustainable transportation.
“When we first started this journey, the idea of charging EVs quickly and efficiently was a challenge. But now, with every installation, we see how far we’ve come—and how much potential there is to shape the future of transport.”
