The Canadian government is making strides towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable transportation by investing $18.5 million in new electric vehicle (EV) chargers in British Columbia. Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) will fund the installation of 2,416 new EV chargers across the province, consisting of 2,296 Level 2 chargers and 120 DC fast charging stations in public, workplace, and multi-unit residential building settings.
Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, announced the investment in Vancouver, where 1,880 of the EV chargers will be built. The remaining chargers will be installed throughout the province in 23 different projects. The largest Level 2 project is PCI King George Developments, which will receive $2.9 million to install 782 Level 2 chargers and 1 DC fast charger in Surrey, BC.
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BC Hydro will lead the largest DC fast charging project with plans to install 56 Level 3 chargers in various locations across British Columbia thanks to $2.95 million in funding from the federal government. Tap & Go and 7-Eleven Canada also received funding from the investment, with Tap & Go receiving $2 million to develop innovative EV charging infrastructure that connects directly with users’ utility accounts.
7-Eleven Canada received two grants of $49,000 each to support the installation of 500 DC fast chargers at 250 stores across Canada and the United States. While there are no further details on how the grants will be used, the company’s commitment to EV charging infrastructure is a positive step towards promoting sustainable transportation.
The installation of these new EV chargers will provide a crucial network for EV drivers in British Columbia, reducing range anxiety and encouraging more individuals to adopt EVs. Additionally, the investment in sustainable transportation will contribute to Canada’s efforts to meet its climate change targets and promote a greener future.