The Royal Automobile Association of South Australia, better known as RAA, says it has completed what it says is one of the most comprehensive statewide EV charging networks in the country.
The RAA Charge networks comprises 550 plugs across 144 charging sites.
“South Aussies and visitors can have the confidence to go further in their EV, knowing they are never far from an RAA Charge,” said Nick Reade, RAA CEO.
“More than 130 small businesses and 40 councils across SA put their hands up to be site hosts and work with us on delivering this landmark project, which is a huge vote for the future of low carbon transport in our state.
“With transportation being a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the RAA Charge network is helping South Aussies play a role in decarbonising personal transport.”
According to RAA, 98 per cent of charging sites are located less than 200 kilometres from one another and span the state from Yalata to Mount Gambier, with 75 per cent of the network located in regional areas.
To date, RAA Charge says it has delivered over 100,000 charging sessions, facilitating the use of over 2,801 MWh of clean energy to power more than 13 million kilometres of charge, in turn contributing to an estimated reduction of 830.6 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
RAA Charge is also the only network operator in South Australia which offers price incentives for drivers to charge their EVs during the day – when renewable energy generation is at its highest.
“At RAA, we believe public charging networks can play a pivotal role in the transition to a modern energy grid and contribute to a more sustainable transport future,” said Reade.
“By offering peak and standard pricing, we are providing drivers with an incentive charge during the day and save money, whilst shaping the charging behaviours we will need to support our future electricity grid.”
Moving forward, RAA says that it is teaming up to provide fleet and commercial EV charging solutions to local councils, government agencies, and businesses alongside its commercial solar and battery business.
“RAA has an incredible team who have quickly become experts in the field of public charging in Australia,” explained Reade.
“We are now sharing that sought after knowledge with others looking for EV charging solutions to support their commercial fleets, employees and customers.”
To celebrate the milestone, RAA is also giving away a BYD Dolphin Essential EV valued at $30,800. To enter, simply answer two questions about the RAA Charge network here between 9 June and 1 August.
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.