Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is expanding its public electric vehicle (EV) charging network, with another 94 charging bays expected to be ready by December, as the number of council-supervised bays on Penang island is set to double.

According to a news report by The Star, the expansion aims to make EV ownership more convenient, particularly for island residents living in high-rise properties where installing private chargers can be challenging.

MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the additional bays would increase the number under MBPP’s supervision from 94 to 188. Another 261 charging bays are privately operated, bringing the island’s total to 355 currently.

Of MBPP’s existing 94 bays, 92 are equipped with DC fast chargers, offering charging capacities of between 60kW and 120kW. These can typically charge an EV from 20% to 80% in about 30 to 60 minutes. The remaining two use 22kW AC chargers, which can take around six to eight hours for a full charge.

One advantage for EV owners is that MBPP parking fees do not apply while their vehicles are actively charging at council roadside charging bays. However, idle charges may be imposed if vehicles remain parked after charging is completed.

Motorists can locate charging facilities and check availability through the MBPP PEARL App or the respective charging operators’ platforms.

The expansion is welcomed by EV owners who face limited charging options at their residences. EV driver Brian Song said his condominium has only one AC charging point, while another driver, Melissa Subhi, said her apartment in Tanjung Bungah has no charging facilities.

As EV adoption continues to grow, the expansion of public and residential charging infrastructure will become increasingly important in supporting Penang’s transition towards cleaner transportation.

Photo source: Buletin Mutiara

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