Z Energy to increase EV charger rates this month

Z Energy has announced it will raise prices on its nationwide EV charging network from the 24th of June. Per-kWh rates will rise from 79 cents to 88 cents. It also raised them this time last year.

The increase will take effect from 24 June 2025, and will apply for both fast and ultra-fast chargers across the Z network. The company says the price hike reflects higher wholesale electricity costs, along with rising transmission and distribution charges.

Meantime, the New Zealand Herald reports today that lake levels in the North Island are high after all the rain. Those in the South Island are at 91 per cent. That indicates that repeats of last year’s winter power price spikes are unlikely. That’s especially with more geothermal energy production on line, and substantial reserves of coal available. Gas reserves, however, are down by 27 per cent compared with last year. 

Z isn’t the only EV charging operator raising prices. Many have announced price increases in 2025, including ChargeNet and Meridian’s Zero network. They cite similar cost pressures tied to energy market volatility and infrastructure upgrades.

According to Z, the typical EV driver who takes on around 22kWh per charging session can expect to pay $2 more per visit.

Home charging remains the most cost-effective option for many EV owners. But fast/ultra-fast public charging continues to play a vital role in supporting longer journeys. It is also essential for urban users who don’t have a home charging alternative.