Energy commodities trader and convenience store network AS VIRŠI-A (hereinafter – Virši, the Company) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its electric vehicle (EV) charging network development project. Spanning nearly three years—from the end of 2021 until October 2024—the project saw the installation of new EV charging points at 20 “Virši” fuel stations across Latvia, significantly expanding charging opportunities for electric car owners.
This project was implemented with co-financing from the European Union's Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF), managed by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Virši became the first company in the European Union to successfully conclude an AFIF support agreement under this programme, thereby launching a significant expansion of alternative fuel offerings.
As part of the project, 28 charging points with capacity of 160 kW were installed at 20 Virši stations, ensuring fast and efficient charging for EV owners. In addition, several of these stations were equipped with more powerful connections to the distribution system operator’s network, enabling future expansion of charging capabilities, including the provision for charging heavy goods vehicles.
“This project provided an opportunity to attract over one million euros in co-financing from the European Union to develop the powerful Virši electric vehicle charging station network throughout Latvia. We have installed 160 kW fast-charging stations not only in Riga and the surrounding region, but also in cities such as Liepāja, Rēzekne, Valka, and Grenctāle.
All stations operate using 100% Latvian-produced renewable electricity, offering our customers a convenient, safe, and environmentally friendly charging option. This enables worry-free travel with electric vehicles not only within Latvia but also in neighbouring countries.
During the project, we became the first in Latvia to offer, in addition to mobile applications, the option to pay for charging both by bank card and in cash—at the tills of Virši fuel stations,” emphasised Anrijs Tukulis, Virši Sustainability Project Manager.
Continuing along this development path, and in addition to the accomplishments of this project, the company has installed charging stations at a further six Virši fuel stations. As a result, the “Virši” network now offers 77 charging connection points.
Coverage of EV charging points can be found on the virsi.lv website
The project is co-financed by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed in this press release are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or AFIF. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
About Virši:
Virši is a rapidly growing local energy commodities trader and convenience store network with 30 years of experience. Currently, Virši has 85 sales points, 82 of which are service stations, and employs more than 900 people across Latvia. Since 11 November 2021, the shares of AS VIRŠI-A have been listed on the Nasdaq Riga First North Alternative Market.
Further information:
Undīne Priekule
Communications Manager
Phone: +371 26 141 219
E-mail: undine.priekule@virsi.lv
www.virsi.lv
