The Albanese Government has teamed up with Fortescue to develop world-first fast chargers for heavy battery-electric vehicles (EVs), specifically targeting the electrification of heavy haulage trucks at remote mine sites. This collaboration is supported by a $10 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of the $400 million Industrial Transformation Stream under the Albanese Government’s $1.9 billion Powering the Regions Fund.
Fortescue’s $35.3 million Fast Charger for Heavy Battery Electric Vehicles project will focus on creating 6MW fast chargers capable of charging 240-tonne battery-electric trucks in just 30 minutes. The chargers will be developed in line with global charging system standards and will be compatible with equipment across mining, rail, and heavy industry sectors.
The project builds on Fortescue’s existing 3MW prototype, with testing already underway at Fortescue’s Hazelmere research and development facility and at the Christmas Creek mine site in Western Australia. The project is expected to be completed by late 2025.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, emphasized the significance of the project, noting that Australia’s resources sector, while essential, presents challenges in reducing emissions. He described the project as an innovative solution to support the country’s energy transition. Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson, also praised the initiative for aiding the mining sector in reducing carbon emissions, crucial for achieving net-zero targets by 2050.
The initiative aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, addressing issues such as pollution, cost volatility, and energy insecurity in heavy industries, particularly mining.
