Solar powered “Supernova” EV charger opened at HQ of car industry lobby

A solar-powered electric vehicle charger has been opened at the headquarters of the Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) in Burwood, Sydney.

The charger is a Wallbox 60kW Supernova DC charger, with the ability to charge one EV at 60 kW or two at 30kW each.

The Supernova charger currently allows just CCS charging, and is composed of six 10kW modules which are operationally independent.

The first of this type of charger was installed by Transgrid back in 2022. MTA NSW has asserted that this charger is the first of its kind available to the public, although it is not the first solar-powered charger, as was claimed.

It is available for use at 60c/kW through the Everty app.

The Supernova charger is a joint initiative between MTA NSW, which represents tens of thousands of retail motor trades businesses, the National Renewable Network and Wallbox.

“We are thrilled to unveil this next generation of electric vehicle chargers which will be powered by solar energy and provide the public with a high-quality, cutting-edge charging solution,” said Stavros Yallouridis, the CEO of MTA NSW

“Increasing the accessibility of charging stations and improving EV infrastructure is crucial in promoting the uptake of EVs and fuel-efficient vehicles in Australia.”

MTA NSW has installed rooftop solar panels, but it’s unclear whether the solar power will be directly used for the chargers, or if it will be offset back into the grid.

Earlier this year the NSW government announced $260 million for fast chargers on commuter routes, more kerbside chargers near apartment blocks, and upgraded grid capacity and charging hubs to support fleets.