Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) has reached an important moment in South Africa—s clean transport journey by hosting the Naamsa New Energy Vehicle Road Trip 2025 at its solar-powered, off-grid ultra-fast charging station.
Founder and executive chairman Joubert Roux welcomed the recognition: —We welcome the acknowledgement from naamsa to officially recognise CHARGE, South Africa—s first and only fully off-grid, solar-powered EV-charging station, as a charging destination during this awareness road trip. This was the first visit from naamsa, and we welcome many more.—
To mark the occasion, CHARGE provided free charging to all participants. The event also showcased the station—s capability, with six New Energy Vehicles charged simultaneously. Using three 480kW chargers and six DC dispensers, CHARGE proved the strength of its micro-grid system.
The line-up included the Volvo EX90, Volvo EX30 Cross Country, BMW Mini SE, Leap Motor B10 BEV, Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV, BYD Shark, GWM H6 GT PHEV and Lexus NX450+.
Greg Cress, Principal Director of Automotive and eMobility at Accenture, praised the achievement: —What—s amazing is that the charging of 6 NEVs is powered by clean energy, directly from solar panels, not even touching Eskom—s power. This is really the future of EV driving in South Africa using renewable energy to charge, and Zero Carbon Charge is the first to be able to do this, with 120 more stations planned for South Africa.—
Looking ahead, Roux confirmed that further development is coming: —It is an extremely illustrious milestone, a year after our opening, to see 6 NEVs charging simultaneously, without a hitch, powered only by PV solar.— CHARGE will soon expand to the N3 and N1 highways with financing from the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
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