In 2022, Entec was proud to be awarded new work for the installation of rapid EV chargers for electric vehicles across bp’s New Zealand forecourt network. Due to the geographic spread of the network, bp appointed a handful of experienced industrial electrical contractors.
Speed of deployment was key; as the domestic population of EV’s increased quickly, bp had identified that a widespread and resilient network of rapid chargers was required to support the fleet’s growth.
As bp has continued to invest in their network, Entec has now completed 15 of these projects. From the earlier projects, which comprised a single charger, growth in demand has seen multiple chargers being installed on many sites, including a key EV Hub within the bp network, being Tirau in the central Waikato area, with 5x 150kW capacity chargers.
Entec installation bp charger EV Hub
The biggest challenge Entec faced in the first phase of the project was the procurement and coordination of the civil works required for each site. The civil works involved in concrete cutting, trenching and reinstatement of forecourt and surrounding gardens are complicated by the compact nature of some sites with compromised access, and the requirement to work around a busy active forecourt. Having used external civil contractors for the first installations, Entec identified commercial and schedule risks in this approach and geared up for the later projects with investment in plant, equipment and experienced civil operators. This has delivered excellent results with reduced downtime, simplified project management and higher quality results.
Entec rapid charger installations for bp Charge
At Entec, we’re thrilled to have a happy client; “Entec has now completed 15 rapid charger installations for bp Charge in the past couple of years. Their team has really delivered for us, they’ve brought excellent workmanship and a thoroughly professional approach to each job”, says Alam Abboud, bp’s EV Execution Manager based in Melbourne.
“We need our contractors to work around the demands of a busy forecourt operation, which must remain open to serve our customers. The safety of our staff, our customers and our contractors is paramount, and Entec has really performed in this regard. The quality of their finished product is easily the equal of any we’ve seen across our business”.
This feedback has been reinforced by Tritium, one of the key technology providers on these projects. Tritium’s Director, Field Services APAC, Gaven Smith, paid a great compliment to Entec’s Project Manager: “After reviewing the recent digital installation checklist completed and submitted by your team at BP Lynmore Junction, I wanted to personally take the opportunity to provide some feedback. I am pleased to commend both you and your team on the exceptional quality of the workmanship. It is truly refreshing to witness a company that takes such pride in delivering high-quality results, especially in today’s fast-paced environment. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence are evident, and it is much appreciated.”
Entec has expended around 15,000 labour hours on these projects to date, injury-free. We’re thrilled to be doing such high-profile work for a household name such as bp.
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