Smart Plugs

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Smart plugs make electric vehicle (EV) charging possible in apartment buildings - giving residents a simple, affordable way to charge at home without expensive infrastructure upgrades.

Whilst they may look like regular power points you find around your home or garage, they have innovative features designed for electric vehicle charging in apartments, such as:

  • Mobile apps for billing and payment of common area electricity use.
  • Internet connectivity for managing and scheduling charging sessions.
  • Power balancing for constrained electrical circuits.

Smart Plugs provide what is known as ‘Level 1’ charging, which is how approximate 40% of Australian’s EV drivers charge at home (Ausgrid, 2023). Level 1 charging is often a significantly cheaper option for apartment buildings to install than ‘Level 2’ charging. You can find more information about charging types here.

Rebate

Apartment buildings in Waverley, Randwick and Woollahra LGAs can apply for a 50% rebate for installing smart plugs, up to $10,000 per building.

Here is how to apply for the program:

  1. Apply

    Before starting your application, you’ll need written confirmation that your owner’s corporation would like to investigate and seek quotes for a Smart Plugs installation. If needed, Council can help with your strata’s discussions and questions via emails, online meetings or on-site meetings.  Note that there is no obligation to proceed once you have applied.

    You will also need photos of your electricity meter board, carpark, and parking spaces. If available, please include any relevant building plans (such as ‘Electrical As-Builts’ or ‘Plan of Subdivision’).

    Once you are ready to apply, submit this application form.

    Council will then review your application and contact you within one week to confirm if your application has been successful.

  2. Quotes

    Council will then request quotes on your behalf from the Program Partners, which are:

    Quotes will be provided by the Program Partners most suitable for your apartment type. Council will provide a summary of the quotes and strata guidance to help your apartment building decide on next steps.

  3. Install

    If you decide to proceed with a quote, Smart Plugs are installed by a Program Partner.

  4. Rebate

    Following the installation, Council will provide a rebate of 50% up to $10,000 per apartment building. This rebate will be provided via bank transfer. More information about this process will be available soon.

Eligibility

You are eligible to apply for the Smart Plugs Program if:

  • The apartment block is located in Waverley, Woollahra or Randwick Local Government Areas.
  • There is at least 1 electric vehicle parked (or on order) in the apartment building.
  • There is written confirmation from the owners corporation to investigate and seek quotes for a Smart Plugs installation.

Demonstration Site

A demonstration site has been established at Hollywood Avenue Carpark, 38 Waverley Street, Bondi Junction (Level 2 near the stairs). Here you can see the Smart Plugs up close and test out the technology.

Terms & Conditions

  • The rebate of 50% up to $10,000 per apartment block applies to hardware and installation costs only. This may also include costs such as cable trays, internet connectivity and distribution boards. Other costs may be included in the eligible rebate amount at Council’s discretion.
  • Owners corporation approval is provided (where applicable for installation).
  • Installation must be undertaken by licenced electrician and completed before 30 June 2026.
  • Funding is equally distributed across each Waverley, Woollahra and Randwick LGAs and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, basis.
  • Any ongoing smart plug costs will be paid for by the apartment block and/or the smart plug users.
  • Any contracts or agreements are between the apartment block and the Program Partner and do not include Council.

Additional Information

For more information, email rep@waverley.nsw.gov.au.

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