UAE transport solutions provider Emirates Transport is partnering with Al Ghandi Auto to install a solar-powered, off-grid, electric vehicle (EV) charging station at its head office.
When complete, the project will be considered one of the first off-grid solar EV charging stations in place across the UAE, the companies said.
It is also the first time Al Ghandi Auto has installed a charging station that operates entirely on solar power.
According to the two, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), announced at GITEX Global this week, aims to encourage industry-wide adoption of renewable energy solutions. Indeed, more broadly, the UAE aims to increase the share of EVs on the country’s roads from 3 per cent in 2023 to 50 per cent by 2050.
Installation work on the charging stations at Emirates Transport’s Dubai head office is reportedly already underway.
The solar panels for the single charging point can generate up to 22KW of power and the station takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge the batteries of a standard Chevrolet Bolt to 80 per cent.
“This agreement with Al Ghandi Autos empowers operational efficiency with clean energy, setting a new standard for corporate sustainability,” said Dominic Hagerty, Emirates Transport’s Chief Transport and Lease Officer.
Adding: “By pioneering this advanced solar-charging technology at our head office, we are demonstrating how innovative practices can lead to a more sustainable and efficient future. It means we can take the lead in reducing carbon emissions from transport and helping the UAE reach its net-zero goals.”
The station, manufactured by technology firm ABB, will be available for use by staff and visitors at the site during a six-month trial period, it was shared.
The trial results will then be used to decide whether to expand the charging station to include more charging points.
“With the advancement of solar technologies, off-grid solar EV chargers are now a viable solution for sustainable, self-sufficient charging. We are excited to trial this technology with Emirates Transport in a partnership that shows both parties are dedicated to a sustainable future,” said Buti Saeed Mohammed Al Ghandi, Managing Director of Al Ghandi Auto.