The Western Australian government has successfully completed the WA EV Network, establishing one of the world’s longest-connected electric vehicle (EV) charging highways.
This ambitious project features 110 charging points across 49 locations, spanning from Mundrabilla in the south to Kununurra in the north.
The network’s completion marks a significant milestone in Western Australia’s commitment to sustainable transportation and regional tourism.
By improving accessibility to the state’s regions, the WA EV Network is expected to boost tourism and support the growing number of EV owners.
In remote areas where the grid connection is challenging, the network employs innovative solutions.
Some charging stations are powered by standalone systems that primarily utilise solar energy and small-scale battery storage.
The project has already garnered international recognition, with Time Magazine listing it as one of the world’s 100 greatest places to visit in 2024.
This accolade underscores the network’s potential to attract eco-conscious tourists and promote Western Australia as a leader in sustainable infrastructure.
Synergy and Horizon Power jointly delivered the WA EV Network, which is part of the state government’s $43.5 million investment in EV-charging infrastructure.
The completion of this network comes at a time when EV adoption in Western Australia is surging.
Department of Transport data reveals that the number of registered EVs in the state more than doubled in the past financial year, exceeding 22,000.
The growth in EV ownership has been particularly strong in Perth’s outer suburbs, including Wanneroo, Joondalup, and Cockburn.
Many new EV owners have benefited from the government’s $3,500 Zero Emissions Vehicle rebate, with 9,200 rebate applications totaling $32.2 million paid as of December 2024.
WA Premier Roger Cook emphasised the government’s commitment to reducing barriers to EV adoption, stating: “This investment will help to bring down the barriers to EV uptake and help to get more EVs on the road across WA.”
WA Energy, Environment and Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby highlighted the network’s impact on tourism and the state’s energy transition, stating: “Through our investment in the WA EV Network, we have opened our state to EV drivers, who can travel from Albany to Kalbarri or Perth to Esperance without the fear of range anxiety.”
The completion of the WA EV Network represents a significant step towards Western Australia’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, positioning the state as a leader in sustainable transportation infrastructure.
