The increasing number of motorists driving electric vehicles (EVs) now have a new place to recharge in Wellington Shire, thanks to the installation of a new 50 kW public fast charger in Yarram.

The charger at the Yarram Hub is the second in Wellington Shire, following the installation of the popular Port of Sale fast charger last year through Charging the Regions, with another 50 kW public fast charger soon to be installed in Heyfield.

To support the installation of the Yarram and Heyfield EV charging infrastructure, Council was awarded $73,000 through the Victorian State Government's $5 million Destination Charging Across Victoria (DCAV) Program. Council also received $50,000 in funding for the Yarram charger via the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program under the previous Federal Government.

DCAV awarded funding to 32 applicants who plan to install 141 EV fast-charging stations within 116 high-use areas and tourist spots across Victoria by July 2023.

Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cr Ian Bye said the installation would benefit the growing number of drivers purchasing EVs.

"We know that more and more local people are realising the benefits of driving EVs, and the Port of Sale charging point has already proven to be very popular," Cr Bye said.

"Each charging point we install will give more confidence to people who are considering buying an EV, knowing they can recharge at several points across Wellington Shire."

Cr Bye said it would also encourage people visiting the region to stop at Yarram and recharge their vehicles.

"What better place than Yarram to pause while your car is charging, take a look around at the many attractions of the town, spend money in local shops, and of course grab a bite to eat or have a drink?"

Like the Port of Sale fast charger, the Yarram charging station is open source, meaning it will be accessible to drivers of all EV models.

Victorian Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said “Victoria is leading Australia in transitioning to zero emissions vehicles, making sure no one is more than an hour away from an electric vehicle charger no matter where they live in the state”.

“The transport sector accounts for 25 per cent of Victoria’s total carbon emissions, which is why we are accelerating the take-up of ZEVs as we reduce emissions by 50 per cent by 2030.”

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the new EV charging station would be good for the visitor economy.  

"As EVs become more popular having this established infrastructure will bring visitors to our region to enjoy local sights and spend their money in our local bakeries, cafes and shops," Mr Chester said.

"The Yarram region has so much to offer and it is important we have infrastructure in place that encourages visitors to stop in town.

"The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program ensures local projects that are important to the region are funded and this is an example of that.

"Well done to Wellington Shire Council for identifying the need for EV charging stations in our region to ensure visitors come here and know they will be able to access charging stations locally."

Wellington Shire Council is committed to investing in a sustainable future with a strong focus on reducing emissions, as part of its Sustainability Strategy 2020-24.

Visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/environment/electric-vehicle-charging for more information about EV charging around Wellington Shire.

The Yarram charger was installed by RACV Solar.

RACV Solar CEO Andy McCarthy said it was an important piece in the region’s EV charging network.

“We are delighted to deliver this project for the Wellington Shire Council and help them bring to life their plans for a cleaner energy future, supporting EV drivers and local businesses alike.”

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