Essential Energy has been recognised on the 2024 Financial Review BOSS Most Innovative Companies list for its groundbreaking work on Australia’s first fully integrated streetlight electric vehicle (EV) charger.
Along with being named one of the Most Innovative Companies for 2024 in the Agriculture, Mining, Energy & Utilities, Future Ready Award category, Essential Energy was also awarded the special distinction, Future Ready Award.
The accolade highlights Essential Energy’s new concept of delivering low-impact, accessible EV charging nationally.
Essential Energy Manager of Innovation, Brad Trethewey, said the award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of a team that continuously strive to push the boundaries of innovation.
“This win opens up new avenues for us to pursue as a company to serve our customers and facilitate a transition to electric transport,” Mr Trethewey said.
“Our focus has always been on creating sustainable and efficient energy solutions that benefit our customers and the broader community.
“The project required collaboration between Essential Energy and two Australian companies, Wagners CFT and EVX, to design and bring the components to life. The community and the local council enthusiastically supported the installation in Port Macquarie.
“Unlike other EV charging alternatives, this trial prototype connects to the existing electricity infrastructure powering streetlights. This eliminates the need for additional infrastructure and earthworks, reducing both visual and environmental impact.”
Following a four-week trial of the streetlight EV charger in Port Macquarie in June 2024, 97 per cent of people surveyed said the concept of EV chargers in streetlights was positive, and 86 per cent found the charger easy to use. Respondents also noted that they would like to see many more installed.
Learnings from the trial are being used to refine the product for a future lengthier trial.
“By combining innovative technologies with public infrastructure, this new approach allows the rollout of new public EV chargers easily and cost-effectively at scale across regional, rural, and remote communities,” Mr Trethewey said.
More than 700 nominations were received for the 13th annual awards, which showcases companies that turn inspiration into innovation.
Featured image: From left, Brad Thomas, Brad Trethewey, Justin Hillier and Anne Pearson at the Financial Review BOSS Most Innovative Companies awards. Image: Essential Energy.
