Sharjah and Ras al Kaimah have announced that they are rolling out more electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the emirates. The move comes at a critical time when EV adoption is on the rise and demand for charging infrastructure is growing.
The emirates’ plans to offer more chargers in both residential and commercial locations align perfectly with the UAE’s broader environmental objectives. These aim to reduce carbon emissions and foster greener transportation options. With Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, leading the initiative in Sharjah, the project is set to give a major boost to the uptake of EVs in the emirate.
UAEV, the national company responsible for establishing the first nationwide EV charging network, has entered into an agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) to install and manage electric vehicle charging stations throughout the emirate.
UAEV will handle all project phases, including installation, maintenance, and supplying the required technology for data management. Meanwhile, RAKTA will assist by granting site access and utilizing existing infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity.
A Practical Move to Support EV Growth
In recent years, the UAE has embraced electric vehicles, with more consumers and companies opting for greener alternatives. As global automakers push out new electric models, the availability of reliable charging infrastructure has become a major factor in influencing the purchase decisions of potential EV buyers.
A recent survey by consultancy Roland Berger showed that the UAE is rising quickly up the EV Charging Index. This assesses how countries are expanding the necessary infrastructure to support the transition to electric cars.
The Sharjah and RAK plans are expected to reduce “range anxiety” – the worry that a vehicle might run out of power without an accessible charging station nearby. As more stations pop up, drivers will have fewer concerns about running out of battery in key urban or suburban areas.
There is rapid growth in deployment of new charging stations. Earlier this year ADNOC announced that it will install 500 fast and super-fast chargers. US firm, Loop, has said it is bringing 1,000 chargers to the UAE over coming years. A variety of other companies are also installing public chargers across the country.
UAEV has entered into an agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) to install chargers.
Unifying EV Fees Across the UAE
Authorities across the UAE have also worked to unify EV charging fees nationwide. This ensures consistency and transparency, making it easier for EV owners to manage their costs and usage, regardless of where they charge their vehicles.
A revised fee structure states that service providers should charge a minimum of Dh1.20 plus VAT per kWh for an ‘express’ charging service and a minimum of Dh0.70 plus VAT per kWh for a ‘slow’ one. By offering this predictability, the government is promoting electric cars as an even more attractive option for drivers who may be on the fence about making the switch from traditional petrol-powered cars.
Boosting Green Credentials and the Economy
The decision by Sharjah and RAK to invest in EV infrastructure isn’t just about going green; it’s about boosting the local economy as well. By establishing themselves as forward-thinking, eco-conscious emirates, they also hopeto attract businesses that prioritize sustainability. This could lead to increased green investment, job creation in clean energy sectors, and long-term economic growth.
The installation of charging stations may also encourage more residents and businesses to transition to electric vehicles, further reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner, healthier environment.
Dubai has the largest number of EV chargers currently, but it seems that the other emirates are upping the ante to become more future ready.
