Australia’s freight sector is set for a major step towards cleaner transport with a new dedicated electric truck charging hub planned for Melbourne’s west.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has committed $12.3 million to Mondo Power to develop, build and operate the facility, the first of its kind in the country. Located in Laverton North, the hub will feature 14 dual-plug chargers designed specifically for heavy battery electric trucks.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project shows how electrification can help reduce emissions from one of Australia’s highest-polluting sectors.
“Through Mondo’s project, we’ll be able to highlight to the heavy transport sector how electrification can be integrated into their existing business models and drive down the high emissions from transporting goods on our roads,” Mr Miller said.
Transport currently accounts for around 22 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. Mr Miller added that “by backing first-of-kind innovation like this, we can accelerate the sector’s adoption of clean technologies and bring us closer to our net zero goals.”
Supporting Fleets with Charging and Cost Reductions
The funding will also help lower costs for 20 heavy electric trucks and provide fleet operators with access to charging services agreements. Membership will include site access, set pricing, driver amenities, and secure vehicle parking.
AusNet Chief Development Officer Jon D’Sylva said the project represents a turning point for Australia’s freight industry.
“This project marks a major step towards a more sustainable and efficient transport network for Australia,” Mr D’Sylva said.
“Delivering Australia’s clean energy transition is not just about replacing coal-fired power with renewable generation. We need to look holistically across a range of sectors, including transport, at the opportunities to decarbonise and this is just one example of that.”
The hub is being delivered under the Federal Government’s Driving the Nation Program and is expected to support long-haul demonstrations, trials and partnerships with truck manufacturers.
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