The Northern Territory Government is transitioning towards a renewable future with 64 electric vehicles (EVs) added to its fleet, including one at the Territory Wildlife Park, replacing two petrol vehicles.
Additionally, the park will soon replace its diesel trains with electric shuttle trains.
“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,” Minister for Parks and Wildlife Selena Uibo said.
According to Wildlife Park Director Rob Hall, the transition to electric vehicles is a huge 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,” Hall added.
With plans to purchase 200 electric fleet vehicles by 2030, the State Government said it is on track to achieve its target.
“The Territory Labor Government is driving towards our goal of 50 per cent renewables by 2030,” Minister for Renewables and Energy Nicole Manison said.
“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 emissions vehicles, and we will continue to roll out renewable energy right across the Territory.”
The fleet already has 64 electric vehicles, exceeding the aim of 40 by 2023, with another 49 on order.
Forty-six charging points and 62 charging stations have been built in Government-leased Darwin, Katherine, and Alice Springs facilities to help integrate these new EVs. This infrastructure will ensure the rising electric fleet has convenient and dependable charging alternatives.
The NT Government is actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles among Territory businesses, aiming to accelerate the transition by providing certainty for investments in EV uptake.
The initiative aligns with the NT Government’s Renewables Roadmap, Climate Change Response Towards 2050, and Digital Territory Strategy, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions.
Last year, the State Government lowered registration and stamp duty fees for plug-in EVs and created the Electric Vehicle Charger (Residential and Business) Grant Scheme.
The NT Government’s EV Charger Grant Scheme is still ongoing, offering $300,000 in funding for both Territorians and businesses, including 100 residential grants of $1,000 and 80 business grants of $2,500 for purchasing and installing EV chargers.
