MMDA launches solar charging station for e-bikes, e-scooters

To encourage the public to utilize alternative modes of transportation as well as renewable energy, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has unveiled its free solar charging station for electric bikes and scooters.

In a statement, the agency said that the facility — which is located at its new office in Barangay Ugong, Pasig City — will be opened to the public from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting Monday (June 27).

MMDA Chairman Attorney Romando Artes shared that the charging station is designed to provide free service that the public can avail whenever they need to charge their e-vehicles.

“Putting up free charging stations for electric vehicles such as e-bikes and e-scooters would encourage the public to use alternative modes of transportation, and at the same time, help them save expenses from high fuel costs,” Artes said.

The MMDA shared that the solar charging station is equipped with three solar panels and a built-in inverter that will serve as the main power source. It also has six 220-volt charging outlets. While using the facility is free, the MMDA noted that those who want to use the charging station must have their own charging cords and cables.

The government bureau also stated that charging an e-bike would approximately take six to eight hours — depending on the battery of the vehicle.

Should the power be insufficient to power the e-bikes being charged, the station will tap into the main power grid of the building to receive more electricity. Further, all excess energy harvested by the solar panels will be distributed back to the building.

Meanwhile, the MMDA chair said that Artes he is also planning to put up a similar station at the MMDA headquarters in Orense, Makati to accommodate those who are traversing Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).

Relatedly, Artes reminded users of e-bikes and e-scooters to follow the the Land Transportation Office's Administrative Order No. 2021-039 (also known as the Consolidated Guidelines in the Classification, Registration, and Operation of All Types of Electric Motor Vehicles) to ensure their own safety.

Photos from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

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