The federal government is investing $84.4 million to install over 8,000 new electric vehicle chargers across Canada. The announcement, made by the ministers of environment, energy, and transport, is part of a broader effort to encourage Canadians to switch to electric vehicles. Another $5.7 million will support three projects under the Green Freight program, helping trucking fleets reduce emissions. Additionally, $7.2 million will go towards 30 educational initiatives to boost public awareness and confidence in EVs.
This investment builds upon the recently announced Automotive Strategy, which includes a $1.5 billion commitment through the Canada Infrastructure Bank to develop a National Charging Infrastructure Strategy. Energy Minister Tim Hodgson stated this strategy, expected in the fall, will guide the development of EV chargers nationwide. The government has set an ambitious target to have 75% of new car sales be electric battery-powered by 2035.
Currently, there are over 30,000 EV chargers installed across Canada through the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. Natural Resources Canada estimates that approximately 447,000 public charging ports and 11.9 million at-home charging ports will be needed by 2035. According to Travis Allan, president of the Canadian Charging Infrastructure Council, the current infrastructure needs significant improvement to support the 2035 target.
The new funding will be distributed through the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. The government hopes this investment will encourage private sector involvement and give Canadians greater confidence in purchasing electric vehicles. Minister Hodgson noted that many Canadians are hesitant to switch to EVs due to concerns about cost and range, and this initiative aims to address those issues.
