Strata pros warn of EV challenges in net zero bid

The government’s plans to move to net zero emissions can’t succeed without involving the one in five Australians who live in or own in strata schemes, says a new report.

But preparing older buildings, especially, to accommodate electric vehicles presents myriad problems of infrastructure and even just electricity supply, claims Strata Community Association (SCA), the peak body in Australia and New Zealand for strata industry professionals.

The report, Electric Vehicles in Strata – Phase 2: Challenges, issued this week, is a comprehensive analysis of the issues created by moves towards large-scale integration of electric vehicles into strata buildings.

It says that with approximately 6 million strata residents across Australia and NZ, and electric vehicle sales expected to leap an estimated 35% in 2023, there is a critical need to investigate the significant, and unique challenges that are faced when attempting to integrate EVs into strata.

SCA National Vice-President and Chair of the SCA EV Taskforce Josh Baldwin says that the report sets a strong foundation for discussions and policy development for the industry.

“The challenges explored in the report highlight the urgent need for comprehensive support for EV planning and infrastructure development in strata buildings,” he said.

“By equipping our strata communities with efficient and accessible EV infrastructure, we can further encourage EV adoption, and position the strata industry as a leader in sustainable development.”

According to the report, Australia’s total EVs almost doubled in 2022, growing from 44,000 to more than 83,000 and electric vehicles sales globally are expected to grow by 35% in 2023.

EVs are estimated to account for 49 per cent of total vehicle sales in Australia by 2030, and 100 per cent by 2040.

The opportunities are there, but so are the challenges.The report points out that In most jurisdictions in Australia and New Zealand, the threshold for voting within a strata committee to install EV infrastructure is a simple majority vote, or 50%.

However, most older buildings in Australia and NZ have not been built with the level of electrical infrastructure sufficient to support the additional load that EV charging creates.

The National Construction Code requires that new buildings are created to be EV ready.

Meanwhile, almost half of apartments are rented, meaning a balance must be struck between consumer demand and owner commitments to EV infrastructure, with government and supplier incentives and funding playing a part.

SCA National President Chris Duggan said that collaboration is critical among strata stakeholders, government bodies and industry experts, to overcome the extensive barriers outlined in the report.

“We call upon all parties to join together and explore innovative solutions that will pave the way for a pragmatic approach and more sustainable future for strata communities everywhere,” said Mr Duggan.

“By harnessing the collective efforts of owners, residents, industry professionals and policymakers, we can take full advantage of the unique benefits that strata living presents.”

“Together, we can awaken a sleeping giant and unlock the unlimited potential of strata, to create thriving, sustainable communities, and set a global standard for environmentally conscious living.”

SCA’s policy priorities demand that:

• Strata buildings and complexes are integrated into electrification strategies at the same pace as freestanding homes.
• Funding programs are created to establish baseline backbone infrastructure capability in all existing strata buildings in Australia and New Zealand.
• Insurers and fire, rescue and safety technicians work closely with SCA and other service providers to ensure that policies and programs are laid out in an effective and equitable manner for strata communities.
• Federal, state, territory and local governments consult proactively and rigorously with SCA to produce policy, legislative and regulatory outcomes that enable strata residents to access and benefit from electrification programs.