WATCH: Solar-powered charging hub for Hunterston

The hub in Ayrshire will deliver low-cost, ultra-rapid vehicle charging powered by 100% renewable energy from solar power, supporting wider decarbonisation goals while enhancing infrastructure across the campus.

“We’re delighted to welcome Greenwheel Electric as the latest partner to join Hunterston PARC,” said said Lewis McIntyre, managing director of port services at Peel Ports Group.

“Their charging hub is a key element of our ambition to create a net zero campus, an environment that not only hosts world leading renewable energy companies but is itself powered by green energy.”

Renewables transition

The charging hub initiative, led by Chris Walker, founder of Muirhall Energy, follows an options agreement with Peel Ports Group to pursue planning for an electric vehicle charging facility at the former coal terminal. 

Its location is intended to provide convenient access for private and commercial users, embedding renewable energy generation directly into the vehicle charging offer. 

Peel Ports Group has already been granted planning permission for the GB£150m redevelopment of the site’s marine yard.

The wider Hunterston PARC project presents a unique opportunity to develop a facility that will support offshore wind developments, alongside other potential uses.

Peel Ports said the project which is in its early planning stages, with the company committing to engage local residents, community councils,  businesses and other developers to shape the final design. Discussions are currently underway with several prospective developers.

Once operational, the wider Hunterston site is projected to attract GB£3.5bn in inward investment and create more than 5,000 jobs.