In a partnership between South Burnett Council and state-owned energy company Stanwell Corporation, a Tritium RT50kW EV fast-charging station has been installed in the Alford St car park in the regional Queensland town of Kingaroy.
Stanwell owns and operates the Stanwell coal fired power station west of Rockhampton, and the Tarong coal power stations and Meandu Mine near Kingaroy. The state-owned company is also seeking to integrate renewables – and green hydrogen – into its portfolio as the industry transitions to a lower carbon future.
The Kingaroy charger will provide up to 300 kms of range to an electric vehicle in about an hour. It was unveiled recently by South Burnett regional council mayor Brett Otto, assistant minister Lance McCallum and Stanwell GM for Southern generation, Michael Joy.
“The EV charging station will help service community needs as well as boost local tourism, economic activity and sustainability. This project shapes the future use of vehicles in our region, aligning with Council’s corporate objectives and delivering transport initiatives that connect travelers with the South Burnett.” Mayor Otto said.
“The highest levels of EV ownership in the state are within South East Queensland, however regional ownership is increasing with vehicles now capable of travelling more than 500 km on a single charge,” Joy said.
He expects that uptake will increase due to falling electric vehicle prices, increasing fuel costs and environmentally conscious motorists.
This mirrors the approach in NSW, Victoria and SA where governments at state and council level are encouraging the installation of fast chargers at tourist destinations.
Kingaroy is only 226 km from Brisbane, so well within range for travelers with an electric vehicle who wish to visit the peanut capital of Australia. Tourist highlights include the observatory, various wineries, and Gordonbrook dam. Of course, it is only a short trip from Kingaroy to the gorgeous Bunya Mountains.
David Waterworth is a researcher and writer, a retired school teacher who continues to provoke thought through his writing. He divides his time between looking after his grandchildren and trying to make sure they have a planet to live on. He is long on Tesla.