Are electric vehicles a good choice for the regions?
I hit the road to learn how the WA EV Network is making it easier than ever before to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Exploring Western Australia EV Network
Australia's longest connected EV highway
We're committed to leading the energy transition and electric vehicles (EVs for short) are an important step to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Better still, our upgraded WA EV Network makes driving an EV easier than ever before, thanks to 110 charging points in 49 locations across Western Australia. That's our country's longest connected EV highway, right here in WA.
Nov 16, 2023
Driving an EV in WA
If you’re already one of WA’s EV drivers, or you’re thinking about an EV for your next car, you’re probably keen to learn more about WA’s EV charging stations, including the WA EV Network.
Here’s your guide to driving an EV in WA.
Tab content 1
Here are some important things to know about our role in developing the WA EV Network:
Different locations across WA have different power requirements
This means some of our EV charging stations will be connected to the network, while other chargers will be powered by a combination of solar and battery, with a backup generator.
At 14 of our sites we’re installing a Stand-Alone Power System (SPS)
Some charger sites have no central power source. The SPS units will include a 50-60kW solar PV array, battery system and back-up diesel generator for when there is not enough sun or the batteries are depleted.
We're integrating EV charging stations with the network
We need to make sure our EV charging stations are integrated within the power systems at each charger location and that energy demand is managed effectively.
Tab content 1
Our ambition is to power EV charging sites with as much renewable energy as possible
As we are able to generate more renewable energy at each of our microgrid networks, this means more EVs charging at those sites will be charging with cleaner energy.
This is a journey and one that we are progressing on.
Tab content 1
EV charging infrastructure
EV charging infrastructure includes DC (direct current) fast chargers with backup AC alternating current) chargers.
DC rapid chargers
DC rapid chargers are the fastest type of charger, with power outputs of up to 150kW. They can top up an EV battery with 200km more range in as little as 15 minutes. This type of charger is ideal for long-distance travel and for drivers who need to charge their EV quickly.
AC fast chargers
AC fast chargers have power outputs of up to 22kW. They can charge an EV battery from 0% to 80% in around 4 hours. We use these chargers as a backup option on the WA EV network.
Slow chargers
Slow chargers have power outputs of up to 7kW. They are the slowest type of charger, but they are also the most common. Slow chargers are mostly used for charging an EV overnight at home or at work when there’s plenty of time to charge.
The WA EV Network uses a variety of charging technologies, including:
- DC fast chargers: DC fast chargers use high-voltage direct current power to charge an EV battery directly. They are the fastest type of charger available.
- AC (fast chargers: AC fast chargers use alternating current power to charge an EV battery. They are not as fast as DC fast chargers, but they are more common.
- The WA EV Network is compatible with CCS2 and Type 2, charging ports. If you’re charging from an AC charger, you’ll need to have a Type 2 charging cable.
Tab content 1
Planning a road trip with an EV
Whether you’re planning a holiday or just need to plan your regular long-distance drives, planning a road trip in Western Australia with an EV is easier than ever. Here are some tips to help you plan:
While you might have planned fuel stops in the past, driving an EV involves thinking ahead about your journey. Learning about your vehicle’s capabilities and charging requirements well ahead of your journey will go a long way to helping you have a stress-free driving experience. Overall, driving an EV could be a great way to save on fuel costs while doing your bit to improve the environment.
Driving towards a low-carbon future
As the WA Government works towards its target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, electric vehicles are an important part of WA’s low carbon transition. Driving an electric vehicle (EV) is becoming more popular with WA drivers who are looking for ways to reduce their carbon emissions and save on fuel costs.
Electric vehicles have an exciting role to play in WA’s energy future. EVs produce zero emissions, so a more robust EV charging infrastructure would help to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This could benefit everyone in the community, regardless of whether they drive an EV or not.
Along with the potential environmental benefits, the construction and operation of EV charging stations could also create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
There are more opportunities to progress the road to zero emissions with:
Expansion to more regional areas
Making it easier for EV drivers to travel throughout Western Australia, regardless of where they live.
More renewables
Smarter charging technology
More rapid chargers
The long-term vision for the WA EV Network is to create a comprehensive and reliable charging system which supports WA’s transition to electric transportation. The network should be accessible to all EV drivers, regardless of where they live or where they are travelling.
Horizon Power acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.