One of Europe’s fastest growing electric vehicle (EV) company’s has partnered with Melbourne-based renewable energy company, Tetris Energy, to establish an EV charging network in Australia.
Under the terms of the agreement, the initial target is an EV charging portfolio valued at $30 million. The role of Tetris will include site identification, development tasks, and funding of EV Chargers.
Virta has operated in Europe since 2015 and has more than 250,000 charging points in its platform’s network and through roaming. Distinguishing features of the Virta platform include the bi-directional charging capability to allow V2G (Vehicle to Grid) charging, smart charging optimisation and demand management, and automated invoicing and platform management.
Elias Pöyry, Chief Business Development Officer in charge of the market expansions at Virta, acknowledged the value of partnering with a local renewal energy company such as Tetris, as the Australian landscape and geographical distances pose unique challenges.
“That is why we are extremely excited to enter the markets with Tetris Energy, who have in-depth knowledge and relationships within the Australian infrastructure and energy markets,” he says.
Frank Boland, Director of Tetris, said Australia is emerging as one of leading EV charging markets in the ASEAN region.
“Now is the right time for Australian organisations to fast track their installation strategies in the soon-to-be multi-billion-dollar market. Tetris Energy and Virta’s goal is to be the optimal partner for them by bringing the best available solution from European markets,” he says.
Tetris is a specialist renewable energy development company with experience in delivering more than 600MW of renewable projects. The team works closely with its sister company, Tetris Capital, which has financed and developed more than AUD 15 billion in infrastructure projects.
Boland continued: “Tetris Energy is pleased to partner with Virta to leverage their global experience and generate additional value in the EV charging eco-system in Australia. Growth in EV charging infrastructure is complementary to the Tetris group’s interests in both renewables and social infrastructure assets.”