The site represents a milestone for ABB, which has provided the EV charging infrastructure, as the first installation of the company’s Site Load Controller, Terra Gateway Pro (TGP), which is part of its Energy Management solution. The TGP allows the NRMA to maximise utilisation of the available grid capacity of their EV charging sites by actively monitoring and controlling electricity consumption of ABB electric vehicle chargers in real-time. This is achieved by limiting the power consumed by the charging site, preventing blown fuses and exceeding of grid limits through coordination with the onsite Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
As a large, multi-tenanted site, the TGP is especially important in ensuring optimal load management. The system connects the chargers across 10 charging bays, which comprises 1 x Terra 360, 1 x Terra 184, and 6 x Terra AC chargers. The chargers integrate with a Battery Energy Storage System, which is used to buffer the reliance on the grid during high demand. Due to the successful roll out at the Preston site, the NRMA has since installed the technology in a further 10 sites across its network.
For the NRMA, the site also represents a milestone, as it is the first fully accessible charging station within its network. This is a key focus for the organisation after developing guidelines for accessible EV charging bays, emphasising the need for a nationally consistent standard to ensure equitable access for all, particularly for individuals with disabilities. The height of the ABB charging outlets has complied with the NRMA’s guidelines and contributed to the overall accessibility of the site.
ABB was selected to provide the EV charging infrastructure for this important pilot site, due to the reliability it has demonstrated across a long partnership with the NRMA. This has seen over 120 of ABB’s DC chargers successfully installed across the NRMA’s national network.
Head of Capital Works and Network Operations at the NRMA, Ian Cosgrove, said: "The NRMA is proud to launch our first fully accessible charging station at the Liverpool Catholic Club, marking a significant step in our commitment to equitable access for all Australians. With ABB's innovative Terra Gateway Pro technology, we can ensure optimal load management and enhance the efficiency of our national EV charging network, paving the way for a sustainable future."
eMobility Technology Manager at ABB, Peter Smith, said: "With the installation of the Terra Gateway Pro at NRMA's Preston site, we have reached a significant technical milestone in expanding the value of our EV charging infrastructure with the NRMA. This advanced energy management gateway not only enhances reliable grid capacity utilisation but results in a better all-round charging outcome for drivers, maximising power to their vehicles. With additional remote management and monitoring overseen by our Australian technical support team it exemplifies our commitment to providing reliable and efficient solutions that support the growing demand for electric vehicle charging across Australia."
