SCARBOROUGH, Ontario – Canada’s climate plan is working for our planet, and it is working for Canadians. Electric and alternative fuel vehicles play a key role in our transition to a cleaner future. As Canadians continue to make greener choices, the government of Canada is delivering more options for them to drive where they need to go, while reducing pollution.
Member of parliament for Don Valley North Han Dong, on behalf of Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s minister of natural resources, announced a $2.7-million investment to build 54 electric vehicles (EV) fast chargers at Canadian Tire locations across central and western Canada.
“We are investing in zero-emission infrastructure so Canadians can more easily make the choice to drive and purchase clean vehicles. More electric vehicles on our streets and highways make our communities healthier, reduce pollution and help create good middle-class jobs,” Dong said.
This investment, made through Natural Resources Canada’s Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative (EVAFIDI), builds on the nearly $1.3 million announced in 2016 for AddÉnergie to build 28 fast chargers at Canadian Tire locations, making the Canadian Tire EV network one of Canada’s largest, with 104 stations nationally.
“Canadian Tire is a proud Canadian company committed to addressing the challenges of climate change throughout our operations. The network of EV fast chargers that we are creating with the support of partners like Natural Resources Canada is an example of how we are evolving to meet the needs of all drivers while helping our customers reduce their emissions,” Andrew Davies, senior vice-president, Automotive, Canadian Tire Corporation.
The government of British Columbia is also contributing $275,000 toward the fast chargers through its Clean Energy Vehicle Public Fast Charging Program.
“Our CleanBC plan is making it more affordable for British Columbians to Go Electric with their cars. These new fast chargers help make clean transportation more accessible by expanding one of Canada’s largest charging networks,” Michelle Mungall, British Columbia minister of energy, mines and petroleum resources.
These investments will ensure that people can drive and charge vehicles where they live, work and play across Canada, facilitating increased uptake in the use of EVs.
This funding is part of the government of Canada’s $182.5-million investment to develop a coast-to-coast fast-charging network for EVs; to establish natural gas stations along key roads and highways and hydrogen stations in metropolitan centres; and to support the development of new technologies. It will also enable the development of bi-national codes and standards with the US to ensure the alignment of EV and alternative fuel infrastructure, making it easier for drivers to travel in North America using green vehicles.
The government of Canada continues to support green infrastructure projects that will create good jobs, advance Canada’s green future and help us reach our domestic and international climate targets.
