Energy giants are spearheading a significant advancement in the EV charging landscape across the UK and Ireland, with 300 hubs planned by 2029.
- TotalEnergies and SSE collaborate to launch Source, aiming for 20% of the charging market.
- Source will feature 3,000 high power charging points, driven by renewable energy.
- This initiative aligns with the Zero Emission Mandate and Ireland’s EV goals for 2030.
- Industry and government leaders praise the venture for supporting a sustainable transition.
Energy giants TotalEnergies and SSE are undertaking a substantial initiative to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the UK and Ireland. Their joint venture, known as Source, aspires to construct 300 EV charging hubs by the year 2029. This bold move targets an acquisition of 20% of the EV charging market share, marking a significant step toward supporting the burgeoning demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
The planned hubs will collectively offer 3,000 high power charging points, all powered by renewable energy sources provided by SSE and TotalEnergies. These charging stations, with outputs of 150kW and above, will be strategically placed in prime locations around urban centres. Such an extensive network is aimed at delivering robust and ultra-fast charging solutions, catering to the needs of both individual EV drivers and fleet operators.
This development is in response to the UK’s Zero Emission Mandate which necessitates all new cars and vans to be emission-free, coupled with Ireland’s ambitious target to place nearly 1 million EVs on its roads by 2030. Mathieu Soulas, TotalEnergies’ senior VP of new mobilities, highlighted the enterprise’s objective to establish Source as a reference point for high-power charging, allowing customers to travel with ‘complete peace of mind’.
SSE’s managing director of enterprise, Neil Kirkby, emphasised the company’s commitment to decarbonising transport systems, reflecting on their ongoing role in transforming the power landscape, such as through the construction of the world’s largest offshore wind farm. This agreement is seen as a continuation of SSE’s efforts to foster a sustainable and efficient transport framework.
The initiative has drawn commendations from various stakeholders, including Lilian Greenwood, the Future of Roads Minister, who regarded Source as crucial for boosting consumer trust in EV charging infrastructure. Similarly, Michelle Gardner of Logistics UK noted the importance of removing barriers to electrification in logistics, applauding the potential of Source to facilitate a smoother transition to electric mobility.
This collaborative effort by TotalEnergies and SSE is a pivotal stride towards a greener and more efficient transport infrastructure in the UK and Ireland.
