Innovative Boom-Mounted EV Charging To Be Trialled on Melbourne Streets

Merri-bek City Council is backing a new trial that could make electric vehicle (EV) charging easier for households without driveways.

Up to 20 properties across Melbourne’s inner-north will be fitted with an Australian-made boom-mounted system that allows residents to charge their cars from home while keeping footpaths clear.

Local residents have long identified the lack of off-street parking as a barrier to EV ownership. In response, Merri-bek Council has approved a pilot program in partnership with Vehicles Charging Solutions Australia (VCSA).

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The trial excludes properties in Heritage Overlay areas during its first phase, but other households are encouraged to register interest for future rounds. Property owners, not tenants, must apply to take part.

How the VCS One System Works

The VCS One uses a retractable, counterweighted boom fixed to a slim post in the front garden. When extended, it lifts a 15-metre charging cable over the footpath, connecting the car to household power, including solar. Once charging is complete, the boom folds back neatly out of the way.

By elevating the cable, the system eliminates common hazards such as extension cords across pavements, keeping pathways accessible for pedestrians, wheelchairs, and prams. Unlike kerbside chargers, no digging under public land is required.

Safety, Cost, and Local Manufacturing

VCSA has designed the unit with multiple safeguards, including temperature-sensing connectors and weather-resistant cabling. The boom’s counterweight prevents sudden movements, and the system is certified for durability in harsh conditions.

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Manufactured in Melbourne with over 90% locally sourced components, the VCS One is priced between $2,000 and $3,000. Installation covers the post, boom, and cable, though additional work may be needed if households lack an external power point.

For running costs, VCSA estimates that an EV charged entirely on public fast chargers costs about $1,350 per year in electricity. The same vehicle charged at home using the VCS One with off-peak power would cost closer to $180 annually. That difference highlights the potential savings for households able to charge directly from their own supply.

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Growing EV Network in Merri-bek

The council has been active in building EV infrastructure. Since installing Victoria’s first fast charger in 2013, Merri-bek has expanded to 22 public chargers, with another 12 at council sites. Usage across its network now exceeds 100 charging sessions per day.

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The municipality also operates a fleet of 30 EVs and seven e-bikes, and previously trialled hydrogen vehicles. Officials say the boom trial fits into their broader plan to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission transport in the community.