Autonomous charging stations

For it's first phase, this project features a solar powered prototype fast charging station, d eveloped in collaboration with Quebec start-up Yultek. The solar panels installed on the container have a peak output of 15 kW, which is insufficient to directly power a 50 kW charging station. The installation therefore relies on used electric vehicle batteries to accumulate the solar output and enable recharging at 50 kW.

While the test bench uses solar energy, the system is designed to accept different types of power supply in parallel. For example, solar generation could be combined with a single-phase grid connection for days when the sun is scarce. It is also possible to power the autonomous station with microturbines, wind turbines or even a generator in case of emergency.

Complexe sportif Guimond, Laval

As part of a partnership with the City of Laval, the prototype was tested for a year at the Complexe sportif Guimond. Over 1,000 charging sessions took place and more than 6,000 kWh were produced and supplied during the test period.

Relais Gabriel

Following the test period, the system was moved to its final destination on the Côte-Nord. The 50 kW bollard is now in service at Relais Gabriel, on Route 389, and is designed to facilitate access to Fermont from Manic-5 by electric vehicle.

The terminal can supply a maximum of 100 kWh. A limit of kWh per recharge may be introduced, depending on the level of traffic.

The Circuit électrique mobile application indicates the level of energy available from the terminal. If the level is sufficient, electromobilists can stop to recharge, thus increasing their comfort level on the road.

A Wi-Fi network is available at the station, but it is recommended that you use your Circuit électrique membership card to start charging at this station, as it enables you to start charging in the event of a telecommunications network failure.

Fire Lake

A second fully autonomous charging point from Yultek has been added at KM 480 on Route 389 near Fire Lake. It includes a 50-kW charging station supplied by a battery energy storage system (BESS) that collects energy from the grid at a low power and discharges it at a higher power thus enabling the station to provide a fast-charge.

This station works in the same way as the one at Relais Gabriel.

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