The Eastern Cape Province has taken a significant step towards cementing its position as a gateway to Africa, following the launch of the third Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Tsitsikamma, Sarah Baartman District Municipality on Monday the 14 of October 2024 by the Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC).
Ms Nonkqubela Pieters, the Eastern Cape MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering a strategic location and business-friendly environment. This milestone underscores the province's vision of innovation for sustainable development, aligning with the department's strategic objectives to improve local economic participation, emission reduction, and green economy initiatives.
This launch is part of AIDC-EC's multi-phased roll-out initiative to support and encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and promote beneficiation in the region. It is the third public owned universal EV Charging Station to be launched by the Eastern Cape Government through AIDC-EC since the launch in May this year at Dan's Country Lodge in Libode, OR Tambo District and Virgin Active, East London in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, respectively.
The initiative aims to keep pace with the anticipated surge in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) adoption and expands supporting charging infrastructure. This transformation is driven by climate mitigation legislation and technological advancements, prompting government policy support for EV manufacturing and adoption in South Africa.
Key highlights of this project include:
Strategic Locations: AIDC-EC is rolling our 13 charging stations at strategic locations that will ensure widespread accessibility across the province and reduce range anxiety.
Partnerships: Collaboration with local stakeholders and leveraging resources and existing infrastructure to provide seamless charging solutions.
Sustainability: Contributing to a cleaner, greener future for the Eastern Cape and minimised carbon footprint for the country.
Government Support: Alignment with the Eastern Cape Provincial Government's goals and the EV White Paper's emphasis on transitioning to EVs.
The strategic location of the EV charger also deeply explores eco-tourism, especially with Tsitsikamma’s focus on environmental conservation, catering to eco-friendly travellers and importantly, adequately meeting demand as EV adoption is increasing. The region is home to the Tsitsikamma NationalPark, one of South Africa’s most beautiful and protected areas. Yesterday, Tsitsikhaya Lodge embraced sustainable tourism with AIDC-EC's EV Charger.
Lesley-ann Cola, co-owner of the 4-star Tsitsikhaya Lodge in Storms River, is ecstatic about her establishment's latest innovation. This picturesque lodge, renowned for its African cuisine restaurant and luxury spa, now proudly hosts an electric vehicle (EV) charger powered by the AIDC-EC.
"As site manager, I'm thrilled to lead our establishment into an eco-friendly future," Coaler exclaimed. "This development showcases our commitment to forward-thinking and sustainable tourism. I believe it will positively impact our community by attracting fresh perspectives, creste inquisitive minds, and inspiring the new generation."
The EV Charger is anticipated to bring a ripple effect to Tsitsikamma's tourism landscape, drawing a unique caliber of clientele and providing a competitive edge. Coaler enthused, "This innovative partnership with AIDC-EC sets us apart, enhancing our reputation as a cutting-edge hospitality establishment.
Tsitsikhaya Lodge's strategic location along the Garden Route makes it an ideal stopover for travelers. With this pioneering move, Coaler and her team are redefining the hospitality experience, embracing sustainability, and paving the way for a brighter future.
The AIDC-EC is relentless in unlocking a greener future for the Eastern Cape as we continue charging ahead, sustainably.
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