WEEV: ACCELERATING EV CHARGING NETWORKS THROUGHOUT IRELAND
Weev is an EV solution company established in 2022 to create Ireland’s largest privately operated EV charging network. We spoke with Graeme Thompson (CFO) to gain further insight into Weev’s rapid growth in the Northern Ireland EV market.
Why is green innovation so important today?
At Weev our journey began with a simple observation: electric vehicle (EV) drivers on our island were facing significant challenges due to the lack of reliable charging infrastructure. Driven by our passion for sustainability and innovation, we decided to tackle this issue directly. Our goal is simple: to build a dependable EV charging network that meets the needs of drivers and speeds up EV adoption. We’re dedicated to making eco-friendly transportation easy and accessible for all, paving the path towards a greener future.
What sustainability issue or challenge is your business addressing?
Our core focus is on addressing the pressing sustainability challenge of reducing carbon emissions from transportation on our island. By aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9, which emphasises the importance of building strong sustainable infrastructure, we are tackling the need for a robust EV charging network. Our business plays a pivotal role in this endeavour by leading the development of an extensive electric vehicle charging network. By facilitating the transition from fossil fuel vehicles to EVs, we are significantly mitigating the environmental impact associated with traditional combustion engines.
What are your plans for growth in Ireland and overseas?
Our plans for growth in Ireland are ambitious. Since our establishment in 2022 we have been dedicated to expanding our charging infrastructure to ensure accessibility and reliability for all EV drivers. With new charging sites added weekly, our aim is to become the top provider of EV charging solutions.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since starting your company?
The biggest challenge has been the ‘Fear of the Unknown’, whether that is range anxiety for a private individual, uncertainty by a fleet manager as to whether electric vans can cover a certain route, or simply the myth that the battery needs replaced frequently. This challenge has been overcome by education in the media and social media and by Weev’s investment in the charging infrastructure in Ireland.
What is best advice you have received as an innovator?
An essential lesson for innovators is that any equipment failure impacts brand reputation. This emphasises the need for reliability and consistency in products and services. Weev responds by forming a dedicated operations team to maintain a 99% uptime for our charging stations. Through robust processes and maintenance, we ensure reliability, building trust as an EV charging provider. By following this advice, we protect our brand and inspire confidence among stakeholders, establishing a solid base for sustainable transportation success and impact.
What do you hope to gain from participating in the Accelerate Green Programme?
Participating in the Accelerate Green Programme offers us the chance to learn about innovative sustainability practices and integrate them into our business. We aim to establish connections and partnerships in the sustainability network to facilitate learning, growth, and potential collaborations.
Weev is currently participating in
Accelerate Green Programme. This leading accelerator programme, delivered by Bord na Móna in conjunction with Resolve Partners, is dedicated to scaling early-stage enterprises, SMEs and start-ups that are leading the response to climate action and sustainability. For further information about the Accelerate Green Programme, visit accelerategreen.ie