The country's first solar-powered charging station has been opened in Galway.

The Westside EV Charging Hub is the first public EV facility to be operated through solar power, with battery and grid back-up.

The hub was officially launched by Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, and Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney.

The new facility is fully funded by Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland and the Department of Transport. 

ePower won the tender to supply and commission a fast charger at the hub. The company was chosen based on quality of EV driver support, maintenance capabilities, a reliable back-office management system and overall competitive pricing. 

The hub allows motorists to enjoy as much charging as possible from free energy generated through solar.

The batteries store this energy so that it’s ready for the EV driver when they pull up at the hub, regardless of whether there is daylight or sunshine. 

Commenting on the opening of the Westside EV Charging Hub, John O’Keeffe, CEO ePower said: “Because ePower is a market leader in the provision of both EV chargers and solar panels, it made perfect sense for us to partner with Galway City Council for this innovative project.

"The hub is an excellent showcase of how various energy sources can be combined to provide an environmentally friendly option for EV drivers.

"ePower is also bringing this expertise to help its customers who wish to implement these novel, sustainable, and money-saving solutions at their own premises.”

In addition to its recent collaboration with Galway City Council, ePower is also working closely with the four Dublin local authorities on what will be Ireland's largest single rollout of fast chargers hubs.

The first sites expected are due to open in the coming months.

(Pic: Boyd Challenger)