Mount Barker charges ahead

Published on Monday, 2 December 2024 at 7:20:03 PM

Visitors to Plantagenet and the local community can now access two new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Mount Barker.

Conveniently located at the Mount Barker Visitor Centre car park on Albany Highway, and the Mount Barker Community Resource Centre car park on Lowood Road, the two AC 22kW charging stations were installed in October.

Shire President Len Handasyde said the EV charging stations were part of the Shire’s transition towards becoming a part of the electric highway.

“The new charging stations provide EV drivers with the confidence to explore all that the Plantagenet region has to offer, on the cusp of the summer holidays when we experience an influx of visitors,” Cr Handasyde said.

“Electric car owners can charge their vehicles while popping into the visitor centre or CRC for local information, to Sounness Park for recreation, or into town for a coffee, meal or some Christmas shopping.

“The chargers may reduce carbon emissions, and their provision aligns with the Shire’s goal to provide and maintain contemporary infrastructure that supports the protection and care of our unique natural environment.”

Of the $45,568 total project cost, $12,784 was funded by the WA Government Charge Up Workplace EV Charging Grant Program, which aims to encourage the uptake of low and zero-emission electric vehicles.

Usage of the charging stations are charged at $0.60 per kwh during peak times (5pm to 9pm) and $0.50 per kwh at all other times.

Instructions are available at each charging station and on the Shire’s website.

Pictured: Shire of Plantagenet Chief Executive Officer Julian Murphy and Shire President Len Handasyde use the EV charging station in the Mount Barker Visitor Centre car park.

Back to All News