Shell has unveiled its inaugural self-developed megawatt charger today, located at the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam (ETCA), designed for dual use by both electric trucks and shipping vessels.
This innovative equipment’s capacity is equivalent to approximately three 350 kilowatt (kW) fast chargers, currently utilized by heavy-duty vehicles for recharging purposes.
Hilmar van den Dool, General Manager eMobility at Shell, stated: “We aim to facilitate the decarbonization efforts of our customers in the logistics sector.”
He added: “Despite the limited number of electric trucks and vessels presently, this investment positions us ahead of the rapidly expanding market. It aligns with our goal to deliver more and cleaner energy solutions.”
Melissa Williams, President at Shell Marine, expressed: “I’m thrilled by the availability and deployment of this technology.”
The megawatt charger is seamlessly integrated into ETCA’s microgrid, enabling efficient management of energy supply, storage, and demand.
The microgrid features 3,600 rooftop solar panels, stationary battery storage, 119 electric vehicle chargers for cars, a hydrogen electrolyser, and various research equipment.
Equipped with two separate charging arms, the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) includes a rotatable arm dedicated to electric vessels and another for heavy-duty electric trucks and buses.
Shell’s aim with this innovation is to promote a universal standard, eliminating the need for customers to use different cables or connectors.
Each arm also features a second adapter (Combined Charging System Type 2), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, and battery types for rapid and adaptable “refueling”.
While the megawatt charger is currently a demonstration set-up, it is operational and available for use by vehicles and vessels equipped with megawatt charging capability, with appointments required for access.
