The Government is actively reviewing policies and regulations to ensure the sustainability of electric vehicles (EVs) now that they are already in use on the roads. Minister for Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau emphasized that while the goal of electric vehicles is to lower fossil fuel dependence, this objective may be compromised if the energy used to charge these vehicles stems from fossil fuel sources.
Tuisawau noted that the government is adopting an integrated approach to this issue. He stated that the Ministry of Transport is collaborating closely with the Director of Transport to evaluate whether current policies and regulations are sufficient to support the expansion and integration of electric vehicles throughout the country.
He acknowledged the importance of developing the necessary infrastructure to facilitate the use of EVs and raised the question of who would bear the associated costs. He mentioned that some private sector vehicle importers are proactively establishing their own charging facilities. The government is working with these entities to ensure that future planning for EV infrastructure aligns with overall development plans.
Furthermore, Ro Filipe stressed the necessity for comprehensive regulations that not only foster the continued adoption of electric vehicles but also minimize their environmental impact. This highlights a proactive stance from the government towards balancing technological advancement with ecological responsibility.