November 29, 2024, South Africa — Charge, previously known as Zero Carbon Charge, has inaugurated the first off-grid electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Wolmaransstad, North West Province. This station is part of a larger initiative to establish a national network of 120 solar-powered charging facilities across major highways, spaced 150 km apart.
The Wolmaransstad station features two AC charging stations for plug-in hybrids and six DC fast charging stations for EVs, capable of charging vehicles in approximately 25 minutes.
Charge has developed a mobile app for iOS and Android to facilitate user transactions at its stations. Landowners hosting these charging facilities will earn revenue, with 5% of charging fees allocated to them.
Key figures at the launch included Deputy Minister of Electricity Samantha Graham-Maré and local officials. Graham-Maré emphasized the importance of renewable energy investments and innovation in addressing South Africa's energy challenges.
The project aligns with the upcoming South African Renewable Energy Masterplan, focusing on local manufacturing and the expansion of off-grid EV charging stations. Charge's Executive Chairman, Joubert Roux, stated that the initiative is essential for reducing transport emissions, highlighting that an EV charged from the coal-dominated Eskom grid emits 5.8 tonnes of CO2 annually, compared to 4.4 tonnes for an average petrol vehicle.