World’s Most Remote Public EV Charger Trial in St Helena

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In a remarkable initiative that underscores the potential of sustainable energy, the British Overseas Territory of St Helena—nestled 1,200 miles off the south-west coast of Africa—has embarked on a pioneering trial that may very well boast the title of the world’s most remote public electric vehicle (EV) charging point. This endeavour is part of an ambitious plan to transition the island towards sustainable energy and zero-emission transport by the close of this decade.

St Helena, a tropical island famed for being the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte and home to Jonathan, the world’s oldest tortoise at 192 years old, is making significant strides towards embracing a greener future. The territory’s government has teamed up with global car manufacturer Subaru and Norwegian electric vehicle charger brand Easee to explore the feasibility, reliability, and adaptability of electric vehicle usage in one of the most isolated inhabited locations on the planet.

The trial, which spanned two months, saw the installation of an Easee Charge unit adjacent to the island’s Museum in the capital, Jamestown. This unit was connected to the local power grid, managed by Connect St Helena Ltd, and served to recharge an all-electric Subaru Solterra that was rigorously tested across the island’s rugged terrain.

Currently, there are only four electric vehicles in operation on St Helena. To support this trial, a 2024 model of the Subaru Solterra was shipped to the island on the monthly supply vessel from Subaru UK. This all-wheel-drive vehicle was put through its paces on both sealed and unsealed roads. Remarkably, during a full day’s driving covering approximately 50 miles, the Solterra consumed no more than 20% of its battery capacity. Thanks to the island’s undulating roads, the vehicle’s regenerative braking technology allowed for recharging while descending, showcasing an innovative approach to energy efficiency.

Following the trial, the Easee charging point will remain on St Helena as part of an expanding network designed to support a small fleet of electric cars slated for importation in 2025. These vehicles will serve both tourists and local residents, aligning with the island’s vision for a sustainable transport ecosystem.

Lorraine Bishton, Managing Director of Subaru UK, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “From Subaru’s perspective, it’s an honour to be involved in a project that could potentially lead to a fully sustainable future for Saint Helena. It’s a real testament to Subaru’s reliability and capability that we’re not sending a technician with the Solterra. And to be honest, if you can operate an electric vehicle in this type of environment, then you really can anywhere.”

Mark Brooks, the St Helena Minister for Treasury and Economic Development, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We’re excited to be a partner in this project to bring in an electric car and an electric charger and to install it as a public charging station in the remotest place in the world. The next step is to roll out the infrastructure so that we are using electric vehicles more and more on the island. There are a lot of diesel and petrol vehicles primarily, and we want to change that behaviour and start to use more electric vehicles.”

Adam Rodgers, Managing Director of Easee UK, added, “I think this project really resonates with us for a couple of reasons. Firstly, we don’t believe location should be a barrier to the EV transition at all. And secondly, the robustness, durability, and efficacy of our charger is a powerful accolade of which we take pride. We know we can place it somewhere as remote as St Helena, and I just know that it’s going to work. This reliability means that customers can ultimately depend on solid infrastructure that will not break down when they need it most.”

As we delve deeper into the implications of this innovative project, it is essential to understand how St Helena’s journey towards sustainability aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. The island’s geographical isolation presents unique challenges, yet it also offers a significant opportunity to serve as a model for other remote locations seeking to transition to electric mobility.

St Helena’s commitment to sustainable transport is not merely a local endeavour; it resonates with a broader global narrative. As nations around the world grapple with the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmentally friendly practices, St Helena stands as a beacon of hope. By pioneering electric vehicle infrastructure in such a remote setting, the island demonstrates that with creativity and determination, even the most isolated communities can embrace modern technology and sustainable practices.

The decision to introduce electric vehicles on the island is particularly noteworthy given the historical reliance on fossil fuels. The transition to electric mobility is a crucial step in reducing the island’s carbon footprint and promoting a cleaner environment. The government’s proactive stance in facilitating this change highlights a growing recognition of the need for sustainable development initiatives in even the most secluded parts of the world.

Moreover, the collaboration between Subaru, Easee, and the St Helena Government exemplifies the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainability goals. By leveraging the expertise of leading manufacturers and local authorities, St Helena is setting the stage for a successful transition to electric mobility. The joint effort not only facilitates the introduction of electric vehicles but also promotes the necessary infrastructure to support their use.

As we look towards the future, the anticipated arrival of a small fleet of electric cars in 2025 will further enhance the island’s sustainability efforts. This fleet will cater to both residents and visitors, promoting a greener tourism model that aligns with the global movement towards eco-friendly travel. By reducing reliance on diesel and petrol vehicles, St Helena aims to foster a culture of sustainability that will resonate with tourists seeking responsible travel options.

However, the success of this initiative hinges on the continued development of robust charging infrastructure. As highlighted by Minister Brooks, the next phase of this project will involve rolling out additional charging stations across the island. This expansion is vital to ensure that electric vehicles can be used conveniently and efficiently, enabling a seamless transition for residents and visitors alike. The government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions through the adoption of electric vehicles is commendable and sets a precedent for other remote communities.

Furthermore, the impact of this project extends beyond the immediate benefits of reduced emissions and improved air quality. The introduction of electric vehicles on St Helena has the potential to stimulate economic growth by attracting eco-conscious tourists and creating new jobs in the emerging green economy. As the island develops its reputation as a sustainable travel destination, local businesses may thrive, leading to increased investment and opportunities for residents.

In addition to the economic implications, the environmental benefits of transitioning to electric mobility are significant. By replacing conventional vehicles with electric ones, St Helena can reduce air pollution and contribute to the global fight against climate change. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

As we navigate the complexities of climate change and environmental degradation, the significance of local initiatives cannot be overstated. St Helena serves as a reminder that change is possible, even in the most unlikely of places. The island’s commitment to sustainable transport and renewable energy stands as an inspiring example of how communities can come together to effect meaningful change.

In conclusion, the trial of the electric vehicle charging point on St Helena marks a pivotal moment in the island’s journey towards sustainability. As it embraces electric mobility, St Helena is not only transforming its transportation landscape but also contributing to a global movement aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices. The collaboration between Subaru, Easee, and the St Helena Government is a testament to the power of partnership in achieving environmental goals.

We invite you to follow St Helena’s journey as it progresses towards a sustainable future. This project embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that is essential in our collective efforts to combat climate change. Together, we can learn from St Helena’s experience and apply these lessons to our own communities, working towards a greener and more sustainable world for generations to come.

Thank you for joining us on this insightful exploration of St Helena’s groundbreaking project. Let us continue to champion sustainability and support initiatives that contribute to a net-zero future.

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