Viva Energy will develop a network of 30 EV charging stations across its Shell-branded network in NSW.
The project, which is co-funded by the NSW Government, will see the future-proofed premium EV chargers rolled out progressively over the next few years.
Lachlan Pfeiffer, Chief Business Development and Sustainability Officer at Viva Energy, said the EV charger rollout is a natural next step following Viva Energy’s acquisition of Coles Express and On The Run.
“The expansion of Viva Energy’s EV charging capability is a critical step in our ability to provide customers with new and more sustainable fuels and energy sources as part of Australia’s energy transition. We are very glad to partner with the NSW Government on this initiative. We have a strong network of sites in NSW, and building our initial EV networks will begin to connect East Coast Australia.”
The NSW Government will contribute $14.7 million to the project through round two of its EV fast-charging grants program, tied to Viva Energy’s commitment and progress in building out the network.
The project incorporates the installation of solar panels and batteries, with a minimum of four ultra-fast charge points at each site to minimise wait times for drivers and ensure maximum charger availability.
Power from the solar panels will be supplemented by sustainable energy from the grid to ensure the project provides emission-free power for EV drivers across a mix of highway, metropolitan, and regional sites in NSW.
“Having acquired the convenience retail business, and with our plans to invest across the retail network, EV charging is a natural complement to that, and customers can expect a high quality and reliable service, situated in optimal locations,” said Pfeiffer.
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