As Australia rapidly shifts towards electric vehicles (EVs), a critical infrastructure challenge is emerging: EV charging in apartment buildings. In a recent episode of the EV Charging Podcast, Ross De Rango, Head of Energy and Infrastructure at the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), dives deep into this issue, offering expert insights on policy, technical standards, and practical solutions.
With 10.5% of Australians living in apartments, enabling home EV charging in strata environments isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential for widespread EV adoption.
Who Is Ross De Rango?
Ross De Rango is a robotics engineer and industry veteran who transitioned from working at NHP on automation and safety systems to becoming a central figure in shaping EV charging policy across Australia. As a key player at the EVC, Ross helps drive industry standards, inform government legislation, and connect stakeholders across transport, energy, and infrastructure.
The Role of the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC)
The EVC serves as the peak industry body uniting manufacturers, energy networks, retailers, installers, and even adjacent industries like medical device suppliers. Its three main pillars of work are:
- Policy and Advocacy: Working with governments to shape EV-friendly policies.
- Industry Development: Influencing standards like AS3000 and 4777, and ensuring new buildings are EV-ready.
- Stakeholder Connection: Facilitating collaboration between manufacturers, charge point operators, and energy providers.
Why Apartment EV Charging Is So Challenging
Unique Infrastructure Constraints
- Common Property Issues: Owners can’t easily access power from their own units to parking bays.
- Power Supply Limits: Older buildings often have limited electrical capacity.
- Voting Thresholds: Strata approval processes can be arduous, requiring up to 75% owner approval.
- First-Mover Advantage: Early adopters can exhaust capacity before others get a chance.
Technical and Financial Barriers
- Lack of Electrical Contractor Experience: Few contractors specialize in complex retrofits.
- Misconceptions About Costs: Projects range from $4,000 to $100,000+, but many are on the lower end.
- Fear and Misinformation: Fire risk and insurance concerns are often exaggerated.
Common Solutions for EV Charging in Apartments
1. Simple Strata Setups
- Small complexes with carports can often install power points or 7kW wall boxes easily.
2. Shared EV Chargers
- Ideal for early adoption; located in visitor parking areas.
3. Staged Infrastructure Rollouts
- Install low-cost options for the first 15-20% of users, then upgrade as adoption grows.
4. Load Management Systems
- Enables multiple chargers to operate without overloading building supply.
5. Billing Solutions
- Ensures fair usage by billing users who charge from common property power.
Regulatory and Fire Safety Considerations
- EV Charging = Electrical Work: Must be installed by licensed electricians.
- No Special Fire Engineering Needed: Unless part of major structural renovations.
- Fewer Fire Risks Than ICE Vehicles: EV fires are rare and often due to external factors like arson or accidents.
- Insurance Is Key: If your building’s insurer is hesitant, consider switching.
Why Solving This Matters for Property Owners
- Future-Proofing: Lack of charging access will lower property value and rental yield.
- Renter Appeal: A majority of apartment residents are renters — many of whom will soon expect EV charging.
- Real Estate Differentiator: Early adoption of EV infrastructure can become a key selling point.
What the Future Holds for EV Charging
Ross sees a vibrant future with millions of EVs, smart vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies, and massive renewable integration. EVs will become Australia’s dominant transport mode, and apartment buildings must evolve accordingly.
Final Thoughts: The Buckshot Approach to EV Charging
As Ross De Rango puts it, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every building is different, requiring a tailored approach. The key is collaboration — between governments, building managers, engineers, contractors, and residents.
With proper planning and expert guidance, apartment EV charging can go from headache to opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the biggest barrier to EV charging in apartments?
The biggest challenges are shared property access, power supply limitations, and the complex strata approval process.
How much does it cost to install EV chargers in apartment buildings?
Costs range from $4,000 for basic power points to $100,000+ for complex retrofits with full load management systems.
Are EVs a massive fire risk in underground car parks?
No. Data shows EVs are less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel cars. Properly installed chargers pose minimal risk.
Do apartment owners have to install EV charging?
Not necessarily. But as EV adoption grows, lack of charging will impact property value and desirability.
- Ross De Rango on EV Charging in Apartments: The Hidden Challenge in Australia’s EV Transition - 25 March, 2025
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