The unit will generate on average 18MWh of electricity annually – which equates to over 63,000 miles of EV range

A first-of-its-kind solar car park and EV charging hub has opened at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness.

The innovative facility provides hospital users with access to 12 electric vehicle charging points boosted by renewable energy.

With a fleet of EVs already in operation at the hospital, Papilio3 – developed by 3ti – will support destination and workplace EV charging, while addressing the growing demand for accessible and convenient charging in an area where long dwell times are common.

A spokesman for 3ti said: “The rapidly-installed unit has helped Raigmore Hospital quickly boost its EV charging infrastructure and will encourage EV adoption in the area by providing affordable, low-carbon charging for everyone, regardless of access to off-street parking or geographic location.”

The Papilio3 is built around a recycled shipping container can be installed in under eight hours.

The spokesman said: “It can be easily transported and set up almost anywhere in the world and, today, Papilio3 is already in operation at several facilities across the UK, designed to solve many of the challenges facing transport, energy, and infrastructure sectors.”

Papilio3 is pre-fitted with a back-office billing system and a range of technology and user features.

The watertight canopy keeps EV drivers dry, while energy-saving motion sensors automatically operate the lights when a customer approaches.

Fully-operational CCTV also provides additional safety and security for staff and members of the public.

Making it particularly suitable for healthcare operators, the unit can be rented, therefore requiring no capital investment.

And, with a solar capacity of 19.32 kWp, it will generate on average 18MWh of electricity annually – which equates to over 63,000 miles of EV range – and can fast charge up to 12 EVs simultaneously at seven, 11, or 22kW.

Brian Johnstone, head of energy, environment and sustainability at NHS Highland, said: “As part of our commitment to supporting the delivery of healthcare in the future, we understand that our environmental responsibilities go beyond our own services.

“As an organisation, we are looking to develop innovative ways to harness electricity and utilise renewable energy onsite, which Papilio3 is a great example of.

“With the introduction of Papilio3, NHS Highland is now in better positioned to support patients, staff, and visitors with EVs at Raigmore and we hope this investment helps convince others to make the switch over to zero-emission vehicles.”