In partnership with the South Australian Government, RAA is building the state’s first EV charging network.  More than 530 charging points will be installed across the state by the end of January 2024. We’re not the only ones excited by the initiative.

We’ve spoken to two South Australian businesses keen to house one of the EV charging points and add a spark across our regions.

Jason Duffield
The Manna, Hahndorf (Adelaide Hills)

Why do you think the EV charging network is a positive for SA?

Having spent the past 32 years of my life in tourism and hospitality in Hahndorf, [the EV charging network] is one of the best initiatives I’ve seen come across my desk, and I congratulate all involved.

Why did The Manna want to be involved in the initiative?

The Haus Group is the largest accommodation provider in Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills. As such, we attract many interstate, overseas and SA-based travellers who are increasingly aware of the importance of smart and sustainable travel – particularly with fuel costs on the rise.

How do you think the EV charging network will benefit your business?

The Haus Group believes the addition of the charging network will appeal to the more conscious and savvier traveller who has invested in an electric vehicle for a variety of reasons. [These travellers] will be attracted to stay at properties that offer [EV charging] for its customers.

We think it’s a real positive, not only for us but Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills as a tourism destination. We see it having a positive impact for many years to come.

Dave Palmer
Beach Huts Middleton (Fleurieu Peninsula)

Why do you think the EV charging network is a positive for SA?

Enhancing the EV network in South Australia is important as it shows the state is on the right path for a sustainable future. I feel the movement to electric vehicles here in SA is becoming stronger and there will be a high demand for stations before we know it.

I would imagine petrol stations may become a thing of the past, as EV stations will be popping up at accommodation premises like ours.

Why did Beach Huts Middleton want to be involved in the initiative?

If Beach Huts Middleton can help contribute to an EV charging network that’s great. SA is going to be a challenging state due to distances between towns and stations. If we can help close those gaps, it’ll help the ball roll even faster.

How do you think the EV charging network will benefit your business?

Being involved in the initiative shows we’re to a greener future. We’ve also recently installed a bank of solar panels and a battery to make the Beach Huts self-sufficient for its power.

Initially, charging stations here onsite may help increase our occupancy as guests with electric vehicles may choose to stay where charging stations are located. But, as the network develops, I’m sure more stations will become available at so many more locations.