Gentari, a subsidiary of Petronas that offers clean energy solutions, has recently launched its first solar and battery-assisted EV charging station on the North-South Expressway. This is a game-changer for Malaysia, as it is the first of its kind not only in the country but also in Southeast Asia.
What is a solar and battery-assisted EV charging station?
A solar and battery-assisted EV charging station is an EV charging solution that features two components: a battery energy storage system (BESS) and solar panels.
The BESS stores electricity from the grid or from the solar panels, and provides power to the DC chargers when needed. The solar panels generate renewable energy from the sun, and reduce the reliance on the grid.
The benefits of this hybrid solution are:
- Enhanced Power Reliability: Overcoming power limitations, particularly along interstate highways with inadequate or unstable grid capacity.
- Green Charging: Minimizing the carbon footprint by harnessing clean solar energy for EV charging, eliminating reliance on fossil fuels.
- Cost Efficiency: Decreasing EV charging operational expenses by mitigating grid demand charges.
Where is Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station located?
Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station is located at Behrang (Northbound) stop along the North-South Expressway. The location is strategic, as it is one of the busiest highways in Malaysia that connects major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang, and Johor Bahru.
The charging station has two Kempower DC chargers that can fast charge four electric vehicles simultaneously. Each charger has a capacity of 100kW, which means it can charge an EV from 0% to 80% in about 30 minutes, depending on the battery size and state of charge.
The BESS at Behrang has a capacity of 300kWh, which can power the DC chargers for several hours. The solar panels have a capacity of 50kWp, which can generate enough electricity to recharge the BESS during non-peak hours.
How can I use Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station?
To use Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station, you need to have an EV that supports CCS2 connector, which is the standard for most new EVs in Malaysia. You also need to download the Setel app on your smartphone, and register for an account.
Once you arrive at the charging station, you need to scan the QR code on the charger using the Setel app. Then, you need to select your payment method, either using Setel Wallet or credit/debit card. After that, you need to plug in your EV to the charger using the CCS2 nozzle. The charging session will start automatically, and you can monitor the progress on your smartphone or on the charger screen.
When your EV is fully charged or when you want to end the session, you need to unplug your EV from the charger. The payment will be deducted from your Setel Wallet or credit/debit card automatically. You will also receive a receipt via email or SMS.
How much does it cost to use Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station?
The cost of using Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station depends on several factors, such as:
- Charging Duration: The time you spend charging your EV.
- Electricity Consumption: The amount of electricity your EV consumes.
- Charging Time: When you charge your EV during the day.
- Solar Energy Availability: The presence of solar energy during your charging session.
The current tariff for using Gentari’s DC chargers is RM0.80 per kWh during peak hours (7am to 11pm) and RM0.60 per kWh during off-peak hours (11pm to 7am). However, this tariff may vary depending on the demand and supply of electricity in the market.
If you use Setel Wallet to pay for your charging session, you can enjoy a 10% cashback on your bill. You can also earn Mesra points for every ringgit spent on Setel Wallet, which you can redeem for fuel or other rewards.
Why should I use Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station?
There are many reasons why you should use Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station, such as:
- Swift and Convenient Charging: Charge your EV within minutes, with seamless payment options through your smartphone.
- Eco-Friendly and Affordable: Reduce your carbon footprint using solar energy and enjoy savings through off-peak tariffs and Setel Wallet cashback.
- Reliable and Secure: Ensure uninterrupted charging with BESS technology while trusting the quality and security of Gentari’s chargers and app.
Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station is a game-changer for Malaysia, as it offers a new way of charging EVs that is fast, convenient, eco-friendly, cost-effective, reliable, and safe. It is also a testament to Gentari’s commitment to provide clean energy solutions for the nation.
If you want to experience Gentari’s solar and battery-assisted EV charging station for yourself, you can visit the Behrang (Northbound) stop along the North-South Expressway. You can also find out more about Gentari’s EV charging solutions on their official website: https://www.gentari.com.my/ev-charging/