South Africa's electric vehicle infrastructure is set for a significant boost as Zero Carbon Charge has commenced construction on two pioneering solar-powered charging stations along the vital N3 corridor, marking a transformative step towards sustainable transport in the country.
Off-Grid Innovation Takes Root
The groundbreaking ceremonies for CHARGE N3 Roadside in the Free State and CHARGE N3 Tugela in KwaZulu-Natal signal the arrival of the nation's first completely off-grid, solar-powered ultra-fast charging facilities on this crucial route. Located approximately 180 kilometres from Johannesburg and 200 kilometres from Durban respectively, these stations form part of an ambitious national network of 120 off-grid charging points.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa's equity investment has been instrumental in launching this initiative, enabling construction to begin on what Zero Carbon Charge describes as the country's first comprehensive off-grid EV charging network.
Provincial Leaders Embrace Green Future
At the N3 Tugela ceremony near Winterton, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Reverend Zondi, emphasised the project's broader implications: "The project demonstrates how green energy and green mobility can unlock new economic opportunities for the province. The N3 is central to trade and tourism in KZN, and the arrival of fully off-grid, ultra-fast charging infrastructure shows our readiness to lead in the future economy. This is exactly the type of investment that creates jobs, builds capacity and strengthens our green industrialisation pathway."
Meanwhile, at the Free State event, MEC of DESTEA Ketso Makume welcomed the initiative's dual benefits: "By decarbonising transport along the N3, this project supports our provincial goals for a cleaner, more resilient economy. It brings construction and technical jobs into our communities and strengthens the Free State's position in the emerging clean-energy value chain."
Executive Chairman Joubert Roux acknowledged the collaborative effort: "We are grateful to the DBSA for believing in CHARGE's vision and providing the investment that has made these N3 sites possible. We also pay tribute to our team, whose dedication and hard work have brought us to this momentous occasion. These first N3 stations represent the beginning of a national transformation, creating reliable, renewable and accessible charging for all South Africans."
Construction is scheduled for completion in 2026, establishing a renewable-energy charging corridor between Johannesburg and Durban.
For more information about CHARGE visit www.charge.co.za
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.
