By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) is taking the European Union’s ban on the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035, seriously as it is positioning itself as a leader in the energy sector’s evolution.
The company has announced an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of public Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations across the country.
This initiative marks a pivotal step in Eswatini’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The EEC’s vision aligns with the global shift towards electric vehicles, a trend that promises to revolutionize the automotive industry and the electricity grid.
The EOI invites both local and international service providers to participate in this groundbreaking project. The plan includes setting up three pilot sites for DC fast chargers (DCFC) as part of a larger strategy to prepare the country’s infrastructure for the deployment of EVs.
The scope of work is comprehensive, encompassing the selection of strategic locations, civil works for station construction, procurement and commissioning of charging equipment, and ensuring interoperability with digital communication systems and payment gateways. The charging stations are expected to feature advanced specifications, such as:
• Two stations with dual DCFC ports, providing 60 kW charging for a single vehicle and at least 30 kW for two vehicles simultaneously.
• One station with dual ports, capable of 30 kW simultaneous charging for two vehicles.
• A voltage output range of 200V – 1,000V DC, with CCS2 and Type 2 connectors.
EEC emphasizes the importance of customer support services, ensuring 24/7 assistance and a variety of payment options to cater to the evolving needs of consumers. Signage, operation, maintenance, billing, and revenue models are also integral components of the project, designed to optimize value and convenience.
Service providers are encouraged to adopt future-proofing strategies, considering the integration of onsite storage, dispatchable load, and renewable energy solutions. This forward-thinking approach aims to accommodate future expansions and technological advancements.
This initiative by the EEC is a testament to Eswatini’s dedication to embracing green technologies and fostering an environment-friendly future. It is a call to action for innovators and industry leaders to contribute to a sustainable and prosperous Eswatini.