Canada: Ontario spends $20m to build 500 EV charging stations
Ontario is investing CAD$20 million to build approximately 500 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and expand charging infrastructure at over 250 locations in the province in 2017.
The investment is part of the Electric Vehicle Chargers Ontario (EVCO) grant program of Ontario’s CAD$325-million Green Investment Fund.
Ontario engages in 27 public and private partnerships to create a network of fast-charging stations in cities, along highways and at workplaces, condominiums, and public places so as to address “range anxiety” concern of EV owners, who worry about not finding a nearby charger.
“This is great news for drivers in Ontario. By investing in charging infrastructure that is fast, reliable and affordable we will encourage more Ontarians to purchase electric vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas pollution and keeping our air clean,” said Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation.
Currently, there are approximately 6,400 electric vehicles on the road in Ontario.
In just 10 years, the province has become the North American leader in the development, use, and manufacturing of clean energy, and through its Green Investment Fund, the province has created good jobs and has driven innovation while fighting climate change, said Ontario government release.
