Electric, hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles are the future of transportation, which is why Jim Carr, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, this week announced a $120-million investment to expand the network of electric vehicle charging and alternative refuelling stations across the nation as part of the government's efforts to encourage Canadians to reduce their carbon footprint.
The funding, which is part of Phase 2 of the Green Infrastructure Fund, will support the deployment of electric chargers, natural gas and hydrogen refuelling stations, the demonstration of new, innovative charging technologies, and the development of codes and standards. Proposals are now being accepted for deployment and demonstration projects.
This announcement builds on the success of the initial $62.5-million Phase 1 investment in 2017 that provided funding for more than 100 electric vehicle fast-charging stations, seven natural gas refuelling stations and three hydrogen refuelling stations across Canada. It is also funding 10 demonstration projects and the building of another 200 next-generation electric vehicle charging stations.
"These investments support the ingenuity of Canadian electric vehicle and alternative fuel companies. Green infrastructure is paving the way to a low-carbon future in both commercial and consumer markets."
- Jim Carr, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources
The Canadian government has also worked with its U.S. counterparts to create a Canadian version of their Alternative Fueling Station Locator map to ensure that all drivers and fleet owners north of the border have the most current information at their fingertips.