First EV Fast Chargers Operational in the Kimberley

First EV fast chargers for the Kimberley now operational

The Kimberley region in Western Australia has introduced its first set of eight operational electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers, delivered through a collaboration between Horizon Power and Synergy.

Located at the Town Beach carpark, Horizon Power’s 150 kW fast charger allows EV drivers to recharge their vehicles in as little as 20 minutes. Another charging station by Horizon Power will open in Carnarvon next month, with construction underway in Exmouth, Denham, Derby, and Karratha.

The Western Australian Government’s Electrical Vehicle Network aims to establish 98 charging stations across 49 locations, connecting regional Western Australia with Perth. This initiative is part of the government’s $43.5 million investment to enhance EV infrastructure in the state, providing essential charging facilities for EV owners with an average distance of approximately 200 kilometers between charging stations.

Horizon Power’s unique approach to this project involves a combination of solar power, batteries, and a backup diesel generator to power EV chargers in remote areas of the state. Horizon Power CEO Stephanie Unwin expressed the company’s privilege in contributing to the Western Australia Electrical Vehicle Network project, emphasizing the significance of robust infrastructure in promoting EV adoption.

JET Charge will provide the charging hardware for this initiative. Tim Washington, CEO of JET Charge, emphasized the importance of reliable and accessible charging infrastructure beyond major cities and commended the joint efforts of various stakeholders in opening up the Kimberley region.

Using the South West Interconnected System, Western Australia’s primary electrical grid, to charge an EV generates approximately 30% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to a conventional petrol vehicle.