Pilbara joins WA EV network

The state government’s EV charging network has hit the Pilbara, with the first of six EV fast chargers planned for the region launched at Karratha this morning.

Karratha, Exmouth and Kununurra were the latest sites to receive infrastructure under the network, which aims to appease EV anxiety for those travelling the state by providing charging points at 49 locations from north to south.

The charging sites provide a 150-kilowatt fast charger which allows drivers to refuel EVs in around 20 minutes.

The Karratha station is the first of six planned for the Pilbara and was launched simultaneously with Exmouth and Kununurra.

It brings the number of EV charging stations on the network to 14.

Speaking at the Karratha City Shopping Centre car park charging site, Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said the network’s entry to the region was welcomed with more stations to follow over the coming 12 months.

“Other chargers in Fortescue River, Whim Creek, Port Hedland, Pardoo and Sandfire will open by August 2024,” he said.

The government previously estimated the EV network would be up and running early in 2024.

The stations are being delivered by Horizon Power and Synergy as part of a $43.5 million investment in EV infrastructure.

Energy Minister Bill Johnston said the network was an important part of the state’s energy transition.

“Western Australia’s transition to a cleaner, greener electric vehicle future is well underway, with the WA EV network rolling out across the state,” he said.

“We are delighted Karratha, Exmouth and Kununurra have joined the WA EV network, with many more fast chargers to come.”

More stations are expected to open soon in Esperance, Warmun, Derby and Halls Creek.

The government claims more than 3200 charging sessions have taken place across the WA EV network since the first site went live at Geraldton in April this year.

Once complete the WA EV network will be the world’s longest electric highway, offering charger separated by an average distance of around 160km.