Fast-charging EV stations ready to connect NT regions

The Albanese Government’s Driving the Nation fund has accelerated towards another milestone, with three new electric vehicle charging stations opening in the Northern Territory.

Chargers in Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs are launching this week, part of a $78.6 million partnership between the Commonwealth and NRMA to deliver a national EV fast-charging network.

These new sites will link some of the most remote parts of Australia with cleaner and cheaper-to-run transport technology by addressing known blackspots in our charging network.

The program is supporting 16 fast-charging locations across the NT, improving the choice for Aussie motorists to travel in an EV.

When the rollout of NT NRMA chargers is complete, EV drivers will be able to make the nearly 3000-kilometre trip from Darwin and through to SA.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the rollout would help reduce range anxiety over the long distances drivers travel in the Territory.

“The Albanese Government is committed to improving consumer choice for cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars.

“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.”

NRMA Energy CEO Carly Irving-Dolan said the rollout of these new fast-chargers in partnership with the Federal Government was an exciting development in the National EV charging network.

“As EV uptake increases across Australia, drivers expect to be able to navigate our national highway network and find a charge with ease. The rollout of the new fast chargers in Katherine, Tenant Creek and Alice Springs sees vital connections established and blackspots addressed. 

“The NRMA knows the importance of connecting communities, whether it’s those from the city or the bush. With our expanding network of EV chargers, we are empowering people to move whenever, wherever they want to safely and confidently.”

Across Australia, the Driving the Nation fund will support a fast charger every 150 km on average on national highways as part of the EV fast-charging network the government is building with the NRMA.