Solarh2e outlines integrated heavy EV deployment pathway at Smart Energy Conference

At the Smart Energy Conference, Solarh2e Director Richard Zee was interviewed by ABC Executive Reporter David Claughton about what Solarh2e can contribute to the future of heavy transport electrification in Australia. 

The conversation explored what industry is experiencing right now: rising diesel costs, increasing pressure on freight operators, and growing interest in electric heavy vehicles as businesses look for greater energy security and operational certainty. 

Richard said, “as a result of the crisis in the Middle East and the Freight Forward event in Canberra, we got approached to look at what can we do in the next 12 months.” 

“SANY produce one truck every four minutes, so let’s see if we can get an allocation of trucks [on the road in Australia].” 

Richard spoke about getting an allocation of 500 electric trucks – a commitment of $200m – and the importance of looking beyond the vehicle itself. 

“The challenge is not just the truck; it’s the ecosystem around it.” 

The interview explored the infrastructure and commercial solutions needed to support adoption at scale, including: 

• Depot charging infrastructure 
• Regional charging and battery swap hubs 
• Financing pathways for SMEs 
• Faster approvals processes 
• Practical government support to accelerate deployment. 

A key theme throughout the interview was energy security and how it is increasingly becoming a business continuity issue for freight operators. 

Richard noted that operators are saying: 

“If I can’t get my share of diesel, I’m gone.” 

That reality is accelerating conversations across the transport sector about electrification, resilience and long-term operating certainty. 

Richard also outlined how Solarh2e is contributing to industry discussions around heavy EV deployment pathways, including collaborative models that integrate vehicles, charging infrastructure, renewable energy systems and financing solutions to help reduce barriers for operators. 

It was great to be part of the Smart Energy Conference and contribute to the broader conversation around Australia’s energy transition and the future of freight. 

Listen to the interview with Richard Zee: NSW Country Hour at ABC Radio