Grove Mall hosts Namibia’s first public Electric vehicle charging station
Used EV batteries can be repurposed for solar energy storage, extending their lifespan beyond vehicle use
The installation of the EV charging station at Grove Mall signals a step towards a more sustainable transport system in Namibia.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction in Namibia, and with them comes the need for accessible charging infrastructure. The Grove Mall, one of Windhoek’s premier shopping destinations, now boasts the country’s first public EV charging station, offering a glimpse into a future of sustainable transport.
The station, established by a team of renewable energy enthusiasts led by Jens Denk, Head of Technical and Development of Electronic Vehicles Namibia and his partner, Conrad Roedern, Electric vehicle pioneer and investor, aligns with Namibia’s green energy ambitions. Denk explained that their journey began in 2019 when they started promoting EVs in the country. “One of the biggest concerns from potential EV owners was, ‘Where do I charge it?’ even though 93% of EV owners charge at home using a standard three-pin wall socket,” Denk said.
Despite common misconceptions, charging an EV overnight at home can provide sufficient range for daily commutes. However, for those on the go, having access to a public charging station, such as the one at Grove Mall, enhances convenience and peace of mind.
A landmark for sustainable travel
The charging station gained international attention when it played host to the Citroën Armée expedition, La Croissante Verte (The Green Cruise). This historic journey commemorates the first automobile to cross Africa in 1924. The modern expedition features modified Citroën Armée EVs fitted with 30-kilowatt batteries, enabling them to travel up to 450 km on a single charge.
Denk highlighted that Namibia is no stranger to pioneering EV travel. “In 2017, a Nissan Leaf driver crossed Africa from Cape Town to Poland, and last year, a couple circumnavigated the continent in a solar-powered Skoda Enyaq,” he said.
Free Charging – for now
Since its launch, the EV charging station at Grove Mall has provided free charging, thanks to the mall’s surplus solar power. “They generate excess solar energy during the day, and instead of feeding it back into the grid for little return, the mall opted to offer free charging to attract more shoppers,” Denk explained. However, plans are underway to introduce a payment system, ensuring a fair and sustainable model for all users.
While the initiative has been well received, it has also faced challenges. Denk noted an issue where a local taxi company was exploiting the free service, bringing empty EVs for full recharges. To address this, the charging station now operates on an access card system for verified users. “A new payment model will be introduced soon, allowing all EV drivers to access the service without restrictions,” Denk assured.
Cost Savings and Environmental Benefits
EVs are significantly more cost-effective than traditional petrol vehicles. According to Denk, operating an EV costs only N$0.50 per kilometre, compared to N$3.00 for a fuel-powered car. “Maintenance costs are also lower and EV service is required only every 50,000 km or three years, and it typically costs under N$3,000,” Denk added.
The durability of EV components further supports sustainability. “A Nissan Leaf in Namibia recorded 393,000 km on its original set of brake pads due to regenerative braking,” Denk added.
Additionally, used EV batteries can be repurposed for solar energy storage, extending their lifespan beyond vehicle use.
Namibia’s EV Future
The installation of the EV charging station at Grove Mall signals a step towards a more sustainable transport system in Namibia. While the transition to EVs across Africa may take time due to vast travel distances, infrastructure developments like this are paving the way. As EV adoption grows, initiatives such as these will be crucial in shaping Namibia’s energy-efficient and eco-friendly future.
The station, established by a team of renewable energy enthusiasts led by Jens Denk, Head of Technical and Development of Electronic Vehicles Namibia and his partner, Conrad Roedern, Electric vehicle pioneer and investor, aligns with Namibia’s green energy ambitions. Denk explained that their journey began in 2019 when they started promoting EVs in the country. “One of the biggest concerns from potential EV owners was, ‘Where do I charge it?’ even though 93% of EV owners charge at home using a standard three-pin wall socket,” Denk said.
Despite common misconceptions, charging an EV overnight at home can provide sufficient range for daily commutes. However, for those on the go, having access to a public charging station, such as the one at Grove Mall, enhances convenience and peace of mind.
A landmark for sustainable travel
The charging station gained international attention when it played host to the Citroën Armée expedition, La Croissante Verte (The Green Cruise). This historic journey commemorates the first automobile to cross Africa in 1924. The modern expedition features modified Citroën Armée EVs fitted with 30-kilowatt batteries, enabling them to travel up to 450 km on a single charge.
Denk highlighted that Namibia is no stranger to pioneering EV travel. “In 2017, a Nissan Leaf driver crossed Africa from Cape Town to Poland, and last year, a couple circumnavigated the continent in a solar-powered Skoda Enyaq,” he said.
Free Charging – for now
Since its launch, the EV charging station at Grove Mall has provided free charging, thanks to the mall’s surplus solar power. “They generate excess solar energy during the day, and instead of feeding it back into the grid for little return, the mall opted to offer free charging to attract more shoppers,” Denk explained. However, plans are underway to introduce a payment system, ensuring a fair and sustainable model for all users.
While the initiative has been well received, it has also faced challenges. Denk noted an issue where a local taxi company was exploiting the free service, bringing empty EVs for full recharges. To address this, the charging station now operates on an access card system for verified users. “A new payment model will be introduced soon, allowing all EV drivers to access the service without restrictions,” Denk assured.
Cost Savings and Environmental Benefits
EVs are significantly more cost-effective than traditional petrol vehicles. According to Denk, operating an EV costs only N$0.50 per kilometre, compared to N$3.00 for a fuel-powered car. “Maintenance costs are also lower and EV service is required only every 50,000 km or three years, and it typically costs under N$3,000,” Denk added.
The durability of EV components further supports sustainability. “A Nissan Leaf in Namibia recorded 393,000 km on its original set of brake pads due to regenerative braking,” Denk added.
Additionally, used EV batteries can be repurposed for solar energy storage, extending their lifespan beyond vehicle use.
Namibia’s EV Future
The installation of the EV charging station at Grove Mall signals a step towards a more sustainable transport system in Namibia. While the transition to EVs across Africa may take time due to vast travel distances, infrastructure developments like this are paving the way. As EV adoption grows, initiatives such as these will be crucial in shaping Namibia’s energy-efficient and eco-friendly future.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article