Territory embracing greener future with electric cars

4 December 2023

The Territory Labor Government is charging towards a renewable future with 64 new electric vehicles (EVs) within its fleet, including one EV at the Territory Wildlife Park, which has replaced two petrol vehicles.

That popular Darwin park will soon replace its diesel trains with electric shuttle trains.

Committed to purchasing 200 electric fleet vehicles by 2030, the NT Government is well on track to achieve its target.

The fleet now boasts 64 electric vehicles, surpassing the 2023 target of 40, with another 49 on order.

To support the integration of these new EVs, 46 charging points and 62 charging stations have been installed in Government-leased buildings across Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs. This infrastructure will ensure convenient and reliable charging options for the expanding electric fleet.

The NT Government is at the forefront of promoting the adoption of electric vehicles among Territory businesses. By leading the way and providing certainty for investments in EV uptake, the government aims to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in the Territory.

This initiative aligns with the NT Government's Roadmap to Renewables, the NT Climate Change Response Towards 2050, and the Digital Territory Strategy, demonstrating Government’s commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions.

Last year, the NT Government reduced registration and stamp duty fees for plug-in EVs and introduced the Electric Vehicle Charger (Residential and Business) Grant Scheme.

The NT Government’s EV Charger Grant Scheme is still running and funding is available for both Territorians and Territory businesses. To date, $300,000 has been allocated, which includes 100 residential grants of $1,000 and 80 business grants of $2,500. The grants are for the purchase and installation of EV chargers.

Attributable to Minister for Renewables and Energy, Nicole Manison:

“The Territory Labor Government is driving towards our goal of 50 per cent renewables by 2030.

“Our abundance of solar resources here in the Territory allows us to work with all of our departments, parks and communities to reduce the impacts of climate change.

“Our Government is acting and will continue to transition to a low carbon future, we will continue to put more electric cars on the road, we will continue to reduce fees for low emission vehicles, and we will continue to roll out renewable energy right across the Territory."

Attributable to Minister for Parks and Wildlife, Selena Uibo:

“It’s fantastic to see the Territory Wildlife Park embracing green technology with the purchase of this EV and that their Visitor Centre solar installation is in full swing.

“Not only is this better for the environment it contributes to significant cost savings.”

Attributable Territory Wildlife Park Director, Rob Hall:

“The Territory Wildlife Park is committed to a sustainable future and contributing to the National Net Zero Targets.

“The purchase of an electric vehicle is a massive step in the right direction. 

“With the associated installation of more clean energy generating solar systems at the Park and the importing of new and modern energy efficient electric people movers to replace the Park’s current diesel trains TWP is making significant strides in its commitment to a clean green future.”

Northern Territory Government