Deutschlandnetz: Mer to install 700 fast chargers at 83 locations
The subsidiary of the Norwegian energy company Statkraft, Mer Germany, has successfully positioned itself in the tender process for the so-called Germany Network and will take over the construction and equipment of a total of 700 fast-charging points at 83 locations in urban, suburban, and rural areas. The company stated that it distinguished itself from its competitors particularly with its location and design concept, experience in finding regional location partners, and a holistic commitment to sustainability.
After the opening of the Europe-wide tendering process in October 2021, Federal Transport Minister Wissing announced the awards in Munich. The Statkraft subsidiary won three lots – the maximum number per provider. The concept includes site designs of various scales, which combine new design with optimal use of existing structures in combination with a demand-based expansion of charging locations. Smaller sites (called S and M sites) will be integrated into existing site concepts at commercial properties. Both the charging facilities and all surrounding amenities are to be designed to be barrier-free, and the preparation for further expansion of the charging infrastructure is to be consistently considered, the provider promoted.
Large sites on previously unused land
Large sites (L and XL) will be realized as so-called greenfield projects on previously unused land. The new development of the sites creates the opportunity to design sustainable, innovative, and future-oriented charging hubs, which, in addition to roofing, air, vacuum, and sanitary facilities, will also offer a selection of food and beverage options implemented in cooperation with partners and regional providers. These locations are also being prepared for increasing utilization. Regardless of size, each location will be equipped with hyperchargers that comply with the technical requirements of the Germany Network and are designed to guarantee flexible and easy charging.
Avoiding Land Sealing
Additionally, efforts are being made to avoid land sealing at small locations. Larger greenfield projects are to be equipped with sustainable resources such as wooden coverings and integrated PV modules. Common charging cards, as well as credit cards or smartphones, are suitable for payment transactions. In the later operation of the charging hubs, 100% green electricity will naturally be used for supply.
"Our concept combines our many years of expertise in the development of charging locations with our pursuit of holistic sustainability. We follow this not only in our design concept, but also in the selection of sustainable suppliers and the integration of local companies at our locations. In this way, we can actively further the ecological transport transition and simultaneously implement our holistic approach to the regional economy," says Otto Loserth, Managing Director of Mer Germany.
Kristoffer Thoner, CEO of Mer, believes that electromobility plays a crucial role in the fight against climate change. The use of electric vehicles to avoid fossil fuels is an essential component of global efforts to reduce CO2 emissions and is firmly anchored by the European Green Deal and the 'Fit for 55' package. Mer aims to make an important contribution to the European "transport revolution." With over 36,000 charging points, Mer already has a strong foothold in the most attractive EV markets in Europe (Norway, Sweden, the UK, Austria, and Germany). In 2021, Mer provided over 316 million electrically driven kilometers, notes Thoner.
Translated automatically from German.Elektromobilität , Newsletter Elektromobilität , IAA Mobility , SUVs und Geländewagen , Hybrid , Antriebsarten, Kraftstoffe und Emissionen , Oberklasse- und Sportwagen , Carsharing , Autonomes Fahren (Straßenverkehr) , Ladeinfrastruktur , Verkehrspolitik , Formel E , Brennstoffzellen , Fahrzeug-Vernetzung und -Kommunikation , Fahrzeuge & Fuhrpark , Automotive-Messen & Veranstaltungen , Pkw, Kompakt- und Mittelklasse , Minis und Kleinwagen , E-Auto-Datenbank, E-Mobilität-/Automotive-Newsletter, E-Auto-Tests