Australian energy giant to roll out ultra-fast EV chargers at 7-Eleven stores

EnergyAustralia, one of the largest privately owned energy companies in Australia, has announced plans to install ten ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at 7-Eleven convenience stores across Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. The initiative has already seen the first charger deployed in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, with two more installations imminent before the rollout progresses to northern states. These chargers will offer either 200kW or 400kW capacity, allowing EV drivers to recharge from 20 to 80 per cent in as little as 12 to 15 minutes, significantly reducing charging times compared to existing infrastructure. The charging units will be integrated with the Chargefox app and will also support contactless payments via tap-and-go credit cards, enhancing user convenience. Additionally, each location will be listed on PlugShare, a popular platform for EV drivers to locate charging points. The installation schedule aims to complete all three Victorian sites by the end of 2026, with the remaining seven chargers distributed across New South Wales and Queensland, reflecting a strategic focus on high-traffic retail locations to boost accessibility. Jack Kotlyar, EnergyAustralia’s head of green transport, highlighted the importance of addressing range anxiety and charging convenience as key obstacles to EV adoption in Australia. He emphasised that situating fast chargers at familiar, frequently visited locations like 7-Eleven stores could normalise EV charging habits, making it as routine as refuelling a petrol vehicle. This approach is intended to ease the transition to electric mobility for everyday Australians by integrating charging infrastructure into their daily routines. The deployment of ultra-fast chargers by a major energy provider signals growing investment in EV infrastructure, which is crucial as electric vehicle sales continue to rise across Australia. By partnering with established retail outlets, EnergyAustralia is helping to create a more reliable and accessible charging network, potentially accelerating the shift towards cleaner transportation. This development aligns with broader efforts to support the country’s environmental goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels in the transport sector.