The federal government is investing $10.9 million in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and education projects across Canada.
Environment, Climate Change and Nature Minister Julie Dabrusin announced the funding July 30, saying it will support 22 projects aimed at expanding charging access and increasing public awareness of electric vehicles.
Nearly $9 million will go toward nine infrastructure projects expected to install close to 400 electric vehicle chargers across the country.
Another approximately $2 million will support 13 education and awareness projects focused on electric vehicles and charging.
Prairie fleet resources included
Among the projects being supported is an initiative from Electric Mobility Canada to establish light-duty vehicle fleet charging resource hubs in the Prairies and Maritimes.
The hubs are intended to provide municipalities, public agencies, institutions, utilities and commercial fleets with guidance, tools and peer support as they plan and install charging infrastructure.
A second initiative will focus on vehicle-grid integration, including managed charging and bidirectional charging.
Electric Mobility Canada president and chief executive Daniel Breton said the projects are intended to help organizations better plan for transportation electrification.
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Nearly 400 chargers planned
The federal government says the new infrastructure funding is being delivered through the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.
Dabrusin said expanding Canada’s charging network is part of the federal government’s broader auto strategy.
“We’re investing in more electric vehicle chargers across the country, making it even easier for Canadians to get to where they live, work and play,” she said in a release.
The federal government says it has invested more than $1.2 billion since 2016 to support electric vehicle chargers and hydrogen refuelling stations.
Education projects target charging questions
Education funding will also support projects intended to make electric vehicle ownership and charging easier to understand.
One initiative will provide guidance for condominium boards, property managers and landlords dealing with requests from residents who want to install charging equipment.
The federal government says about one-third of Canadian families live in condominiums, stratas or apartments, where access to home charging can be more difficult.
Investment tied to clean electricity strategy
Ottawa says expanding electric vehicle infrastructure complements broader investments in Canada’s electricity grid.
Approximately 80 per cent of electricity generated in Canada comes from clean sources, according to the federal government.
The government says investments through its National Electricity Strategy are intended to accommodate increased electricity demand while supporting economic growth and reducing emissions.