Urban Green Energy (UGE) and GE have unveiled the world's first integrated wind-powered electric vehicle charging station. The innovative Sanya Skypump pairs UGE's cutting-edge vertical wind turbines with GE's electric vehicle (EV) charging technology to offer completely clean energy to power electric vehicles.
Installed by UGE Iberia, the Spanish branch of New York-based Urban Green Energy, the first wind-powered EV charging station is located at Cespa's global headquarters near Barcelona. Cespa is the environmental services subsidiary of Ferrovial Servicios, the world's largest private transportation infrastructure investor.
More Sanya Skypumps will be installed later this year in the U.S. and Australia at shopping malls, universities and other locations.
The integrated system incorporates both the energy production capacity of UGE's 4K wind turbine and the EV charging capability of the GE Durastation in a single unit, with all required electrical systems located within the tower.
Designed for commercial and government customers, the Sanya Skypump combines environmental benefits with a strong statement to customers and the public.
"Since launching the Sanya Skypump, we have received inquiries from companies around the world that are looking to embrace sustainability," said Nick Blitterswyk, CEO of UGE. "The Sanya Skypump is one of those rare products that enable institutions to demonstrate their commitment to the environment while providing a really useful service as well."
The Sanya Skypump delivers power through a GE DuraStation EV charger, which enables faster charging using higher voltages.
Charles Elazar, marketing director of GE Energy Management's Industrial Solutions business in Europe, says, "GE is launching a family of electric vehicle charging systems in Europe offering domestic and commercial users a range of easy-to-use, flexible systems to help make electric vehicles a practical, everyday reality."
GE is a keen supporter of electric vehicles and has announced plans to purchase 25,000 electric vehicles by 2015 for use as company cars and to lease to corporate customers through its Fleet Services business.
