Smart Charging Puts Australia on the Front Foot

EVSE and Origin push smarter, scalable EV charging as national mapping sharpens rollout plans

14 Nov 2025

Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) charging sector is entering an exciting new phase marked by rapid expansion, strategic coordination, and innovative technologies that enhance grid stability. After years of steady development, the industry is now setting the pace in public charging innovation, moving beyond merely catching up to proactively shaping the future.

A key milestone in this evolution was EVSE's acquisition of over 200 public charging sites from energy provider Engie across Australia and New Zealand. This move significantly expands EVSE's network, making high-traffic destinations like shopping centers and transport hubs more accessible for EV drivers. It also aims to streamline the user experience, reducing the need for multiple apps or payment systems, a step toward creating a more unified and seamless experience for consumers. Analysts view this acquisition as part of a larger trend of consolidation and standardization that is increasingly shaping the sector.

In addition, Origin Energy is playing a crucial role in advancing grid-smart charging technologies. Recent trials have demonstrated chargers that automatically reduce energy use during peak demand periods, easing pressure on local grids. For example, between 3 pm and 9 pm, the program achieved a roughly 24 percent reduction in peak charging activity, showcasing the potential of flexible charging in supporting grid stability as EV adoption grows.

Planning for the national rollout of EV charging infrastructure is also being enhanced through the introduction of a national mapping tool. This platform helps infrastructure planners identify optimal locations for new charging stations, aligning proposed sites with real-world grid capacity to avoid unnecessary upgrades. Government officials emphasize that this tool will help streamline assessments and shape smarter, more efficient investment decisions over the long term.

Despite challenges, such as inconsistent communication between different charging brands and the need for stronger standards to speed up approvals, industry sentiment remains positive. Many experts believe that through strategic acquisitions, advanced charging technologies, and improved planning tools, Australia is well-positioned to scale EV infrastructure and provide nationwide support.

As more drivers make the shift to electric vehicles, these innovations are helping to build a faster, more reliable, and grid-aligned network. Looking ahead, further investment in the sector is expected to drive even more innovation, solidifying Australia’s position as a leader in clean transportation infrastructure.