Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations: IPlanet’s role in sustainable innovation

When you are on the road and stop for a break, or you are in town and on your way to your usual petrol station, you may notice that something inside these service stations is changing: in addition to the conventional petrol pumps, there are also fast, safe EV charging stations. Behind this major change is IPlanet, making e-mobility accessible and sustainable, transforming service stations into modern, welcoming hubs and facilitating the energy transition.

EV charging stations

Fruit of a joint venture between IP (Italiana Petroli, part of the API Group) and Macquarie Capital EV Asset Holding, IPlanet was set up to help spread fast and ultrafast EV charging throughout Italy. It has already embarked on the conversion of more than 500 traditional petrol stations into authentic electric charging hubs: a project with a target date of 2032. Today, 62 EV charging stations are already in operation, and in 2026 IPlanet will vigorously continue its roll-out plan of service stations, with the goal of reaching 250 stations connected and a widespread presence throughout the territory thanks to approx. 1,000 operating charging points. IPlanet charging stations are distributed on urban and non-urban roads and motorways to guarantee widespread coverage and high accessibility.

At the heart of IPlanet’s offering is an EV charging station designed to be accessible, widespread over the territory, and convenient. Users are welcomed by a familiar, multi-service infrastructure where they can relax in a safe and comfortable environment – making the most of their time while their vehicle charges in a matter of minutes. In this way, each EV charging station is not just a power point, but a complete experience that welcomes those who choose green mobility.

Contribution to environmental sustainability

An EV charging station can only be called sustainable if the energy it supplies really is sustainable. This is why IPlanet has focused on 100% certified renewable energy: in 2024, it obtained a “Cancellation Statement” from GSE (Italy’s energy authority) attesting to the cancellation of 260 guarantees of origin, proof of 260 MWh of renewable energy used. In addition to this, IPlanet produces energy directly through its own stations, thanks to the photovoltaic panels installed on roofs, canopies and structures. Additionally, fully functional local smart grids are currently being implemented, featuring battery-equipped storage systems that improve energy efficiency and grid stability. For example, in some stations – such as those in Trentino or Como – 14 kWp bi-facial photovoltaic canopies have been installed, integrated with storage systems, to power the infrastructure directly on site and reduce its environmental impact. The energy transition is a journey that requires synergy. It is for this very reason that IPlanet has partnered with Edison, with the aim of accelerating the shift towards an increasingly sustainable energy model.

This partnership brings tangible benefits to the customers of both organisations. Edison Plug&Go customers can benefit from a 20% discount on top-ups at IPlanet stations available on the app. At the same time, IPlanet customers have the option of activating a dedicated electricity and gas offer, with savings of up to €50 per year.

Furthermore, the agreement ensures that all IPlanet stations are powered by zero-emission energy supplied by Edison, thereby making an appreciable contribution towards reducing environmental impact and effectively advancing sustainable mobility. In this way, EV charging stations become spaces that actively care for the environment.. This strategy is an integral part of IPlanet’s vision for sustainable transportation: to help drivers understand and make the best possible use of the e-mobility sector.

Technological innovations for faster and more convenient charging

The transition to e-mobility does not only focus on making charging stations available, but also on improving the quality of the charging experience. IPlanet has decided to invest in technological innovations that make each EV charging station not only faster, but also more user-friendly and universally accessible. The aim is to eliminate stress and downtime, turning recharging into a natural, safe and pleasant daily routine.

Fast and ultra-fast recharging

Thanks to the Fast+ and Ultrafast technologies – which deliver power of 150 kW and at least 300 kW, respectively – charging your car takes less time than a coffee break. On average, 80% of the battery can be replenished in just 15 minutes. In Piedmont, for example, two new Ultrafast 300 kW stations serve high-traffic areas such as busy shopping centres or industrial estates that are increasingly dedicated to the use of sustainable modes of transport. New even more powerful and even more efficient 400 kW Ultrafast charging stations are also going to be installed shortly.

Simple interfaces and parking services

The recharging interface is simple and easy to use: intuitive LED lights, booking and payment via app, and a relaxing setting, thanks to the partnership with Autogrill. All in all, an extraordinary experience. Organised in this way, an EV charging station becomes an integral part of a new idea of travel that fully espouses the philosophy of green mobility.

On-site smart and renewable energy

The infrastructure integrates solar panels and storage batteries, building local microgrids. This allows for more stable and greener energy, reducing both costs and the ecological footprint of the service. It is a tangible example of sustainable mobility, where technology meets energy efficiency and helps develop sustainable modes of transport that do not compromise the environment.

Intuitive app and full digitalisation

Digitalisation is designed to simplify, to make every stop intuitive and to turn the EV charging station into an intelligent way of serving customers. The IPlanet app brings everything together: from the interactive map to booking, activation, monitoring and paying of charging sessions, including flexible rates and current promotions.

Strategic partnerships

Within this new vision, IPlanet is engaging in numerous strategic partnerships. Collaborations include the one with Siemens and Alpitronic for HPC stations, i.e. the ultra-fast High Power Charging of electric vehicles. Not to mention the partnership with Autogrill for lounge and dining services: This agreement envisages the management by Autogrill of all the activities at the points of sale. These include a cafeteria, bar, snacks and light meals, ideal for a quick stop, but also for those seeking a longer break in a comfortable environment. The project is inspired by the principles of the circular economy, with the aim of extending the life cycle of materials through their reuse. The furnishings, for example, are made using Autogrill’s WAS products, which are derived from recovered coffee grounds, citrus waste, and recycled plastic.

Together with the abovementioned synergy with Edison for green energy, and Smart Italia for events and mobility, the partnerships forged make IPlanet a constantly evolving ecosystem designed to put the user at the centre. Not only technology, but also green mobility as a shared vision among multiple stakeholders. IPlanet is redefining the concept of EV charging stations, turning these spaces into modern, fast and sustainable hubs. Thanks to ultrafast technologies, renewable energy, smart apps and a widespread network, recharging becomes a natural part of the daily routine.

A new vision of mobility also begins here: accessible infrastructures woven into everyday life, guiding drivers toward the use of sustainable modes of transport. The future is already here, waiting for you at the next station.