Federal government investing in Ontario’s electrical vehicle network

The federal government is working towards reducing green-house gas emissions.

In order to foster cleaner, greener transportation, the government is providing Canadians with more options to purchase, charge and drive zero-emission, electric vehicles (EV).

Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the federal government will be investing $8 million to build 160 fast chargers at 73 locations for EVs across the province to help Ontarians transition to a clean energy future.

The funding is provided through Natural Resources Canada’s Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative, and will allow Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation to build one of the province’s largest EV networks.

This announcement is part of a larger goal the government has to reach 100 per cent of passenger zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040.

To achieve this, the Canadian government is investing over $300 million to support the establishment of a coast-to-coast network of fast-chargers for EVs, charging stations at apartment buildings, public places and workplaces, and hydrogen stations in metropolitan centres.

“Our government is committed to supporting innovative, green infrastructure projects that will bring us closer to a competitive, zero-emissions transportation sector,” Bains said in a news release.

“Today’s investment will ensure that Canadian made solutions are at the forefront of solving the global climate change crisis, leaving our children and grandchildren with a healthier planet and cleaner air to breathe,” he continued.

“We take pride in energizing life in communities across Ontario and believe in creating a brighter and sustainable future for all through a greener transportation sector,” Imran Merali, vice-president of customer service for Hydro One and co-president of Ivy Charging Network, said in the same release.

“Hydro One is launching Ivy Charging Network with our partner OPG and support from Natural Resources Canada to create a sustainable and reliable electric vehicle fast-charger network that will connect all parts of Ontario,” he continued.