A new five-year agreement to significantly expand the Shire of Denmark Council’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure has been endorsed with specialist provider, eLumina.
Under the agreement, eLumina will replace the existing slow chargers and install and operate battery-backed fast EV charging stations at Berridge Park and the public carpark at the Shire Administration Building at no upfront cost to the Shire.
Council noted that its current chargers will not meet expected demand, particularly during high-visitor periods, making the new fast chargers a substantial investment in local infrastructure that provides faster, more reliable charging during peak holiday periods when demand from travelling EV users is highest.
In addition, Council says it expects the expanded charging network to encourage longer stays and increased spending in local businesses, delivering flow‐on economic benefits to the community.
Shire President, Aaron Wiggins said the installation of more EV infrastructure, at zero cost to rate payers, was a positive outcome for the community.
“The lack of EV charging in regional areas is not just a headache for electric vehicle users, it’s also a barrier to the full growth of EV utilisation on our roads and highways,” Cr Wiggins said.
“Having fast-charging stations available within our Shire is a huge upgrade to our EV infrastructure and sets a great example of how we can work within our existing power grid constraints to make the most of local renewable energy, for locals and visitors.”
The eLumina chargers use battery-backed technology, enabling high‐power, fast charging without requiring major upgrades to our electricity network, and are particularly well suited to regional areas by improving reliability during peak demand or local power interruptions.
The installation also complements the Western Australian Electric Vehicle Network, strengthening Denmark’s connectivity with surrounding regional centres while supporting the uptake of sustainable transport and reducing transport-related emissions.
The agreement will commence for an initial five‐year term, with options to renew, and eLumina will be responsible for installation, operation, maintenance and ongoing compliance.
