Three new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are being unveiled this week in the Northern Territory, with new chargers installed by NRMA in Katherine, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs.
The first of the new EV chargers was unveiled Tuesday in the town of Katherine, 320 kilometres southeast of Darwin, with two more charging locations to open this week in Tennant Creek and Alice Springs.
As part of its federal funded national network, the NRMA will roll out at least 16 fast-charging locations in the Northern Territory ,which will enable EV drivers to easily make the nearly 3,000-kilometre trip from Darwin through to Adelaide.
“As EV uptake increases across Australia, drivers expect to be able to navigate our national highway network and find a charge with ease,” said Carly Irving-Dolan, NRMA Energy CEO.
“The rollout of the new fast chargers in Katherine, Tenant Creek and Alice Springs sees vital connections established and blackspots addressed.”
Backed by the Labor government’s Driving the Nation fund, the rollout of new EV chargers across the Northern Territory are part of a $78.6 million partnership between the Commonwealth and NRMA to deliver a national EV fast-charging network.
“The Albanese Government is committed to improving consumer choice for cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars,” said Chris Bowen, the federal minister for climate change and energy, who was on hand to unveil the Katherine EV charger.
“That’s why we’re investing in fast-charging electric vehicle stations that make long distance travel in rural, regional and outback Australia possible – including the Stuart Highway.
“Our partnership with the NRMA along with our electric car discount is giving Aussie motorists more choice to buy an EV as their next car or use an EV for their next holiday in the outback or the city.
“Last year was a record year for EV charging installation in Australia and the national rollout will continue in 2024 with Australians hungry for more cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars.
“With New Vehicle Efficiency Standards on the way, Australians can also look forward to getting more choice to save petrol, like people do overseas.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.