Thabo Meeko and Joubert Roux
Zero Carbon Charge (Zero CC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Free State provincial government on the introduction of what it describes as a “network of solar-powered, offgrid, ultrafast electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the province”.
The rollout promises the construction of 15 electric passenger vehicle charging stations and seven electric truck charging stations by Zero CC and Zero Carbon Logistics (Zero CL), respectively.
Zero CC says this network should be completed by September next year.
The structure of the deal will allow landowners to earn 5% of the revenue generated from vehicle-charging on their land, while 1% of the total revenue from charging will be reinvested in local socioeconomic development initiatives.
Zero CC says the chargers will form part of a network of 120 renewable energy electric passenger vehicle charging stations and 120 electric truck charging stations Zero CC and Zero CL aim to build across the country.
“It is encouraging to see that through the Free State’s energy indaba and investment conference, we are attracting private investors that see the potential of the Free State as being an energy hub for the country,” comments Free State Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Thabo Meeko.
“Our off-grid EV charging network will not only reduce the [Free State’s] carbon footprint, but also stimulate local economic growth, creating new opportunities for small businesses, communities and farmers,” notes Zero CC cofounder Joubert Roux.
Zero CC says the EV charging sites will be located in the following local municipalities in the Free State: Mohokare; Ngwathe; Metsimaholo; Mafube; Tokologo; Maluti-a-Phofung; Mangaung; Dihlabeng; Kopanong; Phumelela; Moqhaka; Mantsopa and Masilonyana.