Gov’t, Shell studying viability of EV charging stations

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Shell Group are looking at the viability of establishing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in line with the aggressive push for the adoption of electric cars.

The accord signed between the DOE, listed oil firm Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and retail electricity supplier Shell Energy Philippines Inc. (SEPH) calls for a pilot study of EV charging stations powered by renewable energy such as solar power.

“The key components of the pilot project include supply, installation, operation and maintenance of charging stations, monitoring and verification of energy efficiency, performance and savings through the utilization of RE and optimization of the use of cleaner energy,” the DOE said in a statement.

This will serve as the department’s reference for crafting programs, policies and regulations to adopt and operate such charging stations involving the use of cleaner sources of energy in a sustainable and safe manner.

On the part of Pilipinas Shell and SEPH, data generated from the pilot project will be used as a benchmark to establish a network of e-vehicle charging stations in their existing and future gasoline stations nationwide.

The agency noted the latest undertaking is in line with the goal of transitioning towards clean energy fuels and technologies as spelled out in the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2020-2040.

It also said this will provide the support infrastructure for the 10 percent penetration rate of EVs for road transport by 2040.

“These alternative opportunities could also position Shell at the forefront of their quest for sustainable and inclusive growth by adding a more compelling long-term vision for clean technologies and renewable energy investment into their portfolio,” said Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla.

Meanwhile, the DOE is targeting to release the national plan for the EV industry through the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (Crevi) by the end of the first quarter.

The EV roadmap, which paves the way for the commercialization of e-vehicles, covers the development of standards and specifications of EVs and charging stations, industry promotion, designation of dedicated parking slots for e-vehicles and construction or installation of charging stations in dedicated parking slots and spaces.

The country has 9,000 registered e-vehicles as of end-2021 and of which, 378 are public utility vehicles. There are also 327 charging stations nationwide.