Africa bets on solar microgrids to power electric trucks – AP News
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- Solar-powered truck charging hubs are being developed in South Africa to support heavy-duty electric trucks.
- Cape Town-based Zero Carbon Charge (Charge) is leading this initiative, inspired by global models like WattEV and Milence.
- Two off-grid, solar-powered charging stations are being built along the Johannesburg-Durban corridor, backed by a $6.2 million investment.
- The stations, set for completion by June, will enable long-distance EV travel on one of South Africa's busiest routes.
- Future plans include expanding to the N1 corridor between Johannesburg and Cape Town.
- Charge successfully demonstrated its capability by charging two heavy-duty electric trucks and four passenger EVs simultaneously.
- Other African clean transport companies focus on electric motorbikes, but Charge's model is unique for heavy trucks.
- Challenges include regulatory delays, high import duties, and limited vehicle availability.
- The initiative aims to reduce emissions and enhance energy security in freight transport.