News you need

Wellington Council’s $98k electric chargers spark “subsidy” debate

Summarised by Centrist

Wellington City Council’s recent installation of two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Island Bay, costing $98,000, has started a furore over public funds being used to “subsidise” wealthier EV owners. 

The chargers are part of the council’s “Charged Up Capital” programme. They were installed opposite a New World supermarket in September. However, with 34 chargers installed so far the programme faces budget cuts and possible cancellation.

Since opening, the stations have been used only 128 times, raising questions about demand and accessibility.

Local councillor Nureddin Abdurahman criticised the initiative as “tone deaf and out of touch” with those who struggle with parking in the area. “It makes me angry,” he said, noting that limited parking affects seniors, the disabled, and families in Island Bay more than Tesla owners. 

Council members have voiced similar concerns, with councillor Sarah Free acknowledging that EVs are still costly and stating that prioritising parking for EV chargers could be seen as an “equity” issue. 

Read more over at The Post

Enjoyed this story? Share it around.​

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
3 Comments
Most Voted
Newest Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Read More

NEWS STORIES

Sign up for our free newsletter

Receive curated lists of news links and easy-to-digest summaries from independent, alternative and mainstream media about issues affect New Zealanders.