16 July 2024: TotalEnergies, a global integrated energy company and SSE, leading developer and operator of renewable energy generation have entered into a binding agreement to create a joint venture called "Source," aiming to become a leading force in EV charging infrastructure in the UK and Ireland. This initiative will see the deployment of up to 3,000 high-power charge points, catering to the growing demand from electric vehicle (EV) and fleet owners for fast and reliable charging solutions.
Over the next five years, Source plans to establish up to 3,000 high-power charge points, each offering 150 kW or more, across 300 "EV hubs." These hubs will be strategically located in prime urban areas, ensuring accessibility and convenience for users. The entire network will be powered by renewable energy supplied by SSE and TotalEnergies. Several hubs are already under construction, with many more in the planning stages.
In an official press release by TotalEnergies, Mathieu Soulas, Senior Vice President New Mobilities, TotalEnergies stated, “TotalEnergies is proud to contribute to the development of electric mobility to decarbonize transportation in the UK and Ireland. This is a great opportunity to extend our network in Europe and stake out a key position as a reference high-power charging player. We want to offer our customers - passenger cars and fleet alike - a nationwide, ultra-fast and reliable charging service that allows them to travel efficiently with complete peace of mind. This development also contributes to our integrated power strategy in the UK, combining renewable and flexible power generation capacity, trading and marketing of low-carbon electricity available 24 hours a day.”
In the press release Neil Kirkby, Managing Director of Enterprise, SSE was quoted saying, “SSE is already playing a leading role in decarbonising the UK and Ireland’s power system including building the world’s largest offshore wind farm and transforming electricity networks. Now this agreement will help accelerate progress towards a decarbonised transport system too, ensuring the vehicles that keep the economy moving can do so in a more sustainable and efficient way.”
In the UK, Source aims to provide the ultra-fast charging infrastructure essential for meeting the demands of EV drivers and fleet operators. This initiative supports the UK Government's zero vehicle emissions mandate for all new cars and vans, highlighting the importance of robust power supply infrastructure for the transition to electric transport.
Similarly, in Ireland, Source’s plans will help expedite efforts to achieve the government’s target of having nearly 1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030. This will bolster consumer confidence in EV charging infrastructure, facilitating the shift to greener transportation options.
The joint venture between TotalEnergies and SSE marks a significant step towards the decarbonization of transport in the UK and Ireland, providing the necessary infrastructure to support the growing number of electric vehicles and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
