DISTRICT OF SUMMERLAND, British Columbia -

Dealerships in British Columbia that retail electric vehicles can enhance their pitch to potential buyers by mentioning the latest government investment to boost nearby infrastructure specific for those units.

This week, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources Seamus O’Regan announced a $380,000 investment to help the Corporation District of the Summerland build 22 electric vehicle (EV) chargers as part of the government’s commitment to realizing a low-carbon future.

Officials indicated six electric vehicle fast chargers and 16 level 2 EV chargers will be located at various public sites, including the city’s commercial businesses and its Tourist Information Centre. The first site is scheduled to open in the fall.

“Through CleanBC, we’re working to make it more convenient for British Columbians to switch to an electric vehicle, reduce pollution and save on fuel costs. These investments in new, public fast-charging stations in Summerland will make it easier for drivers to charge up, putting B.C. on the road to a clean energy future,” said Bruce Ralston, provincial minister of energy, mines and petroleum resources, in a news release.

The federal funding, which is provided through the Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative (EVAFIDI) and the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program, is in addition to the $150,000 the government of British Columbia is investing in the project.

Officials explained this investment supports commitments from the federal government to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and the provincial government to reduce emissions by 80% by 2050. It also supports the government’s goal to reach its ambitious target of 100% of zero-emission passenger vehicle sales by 2040.

“We are providing greener options for Canadians to drive where they want to go. This is how we get to net zero by 2050,” O’Regan said in a news release

To reach this target, the government of Canada has provided more than $300 million to support the establishment of a coast-to-coast network of fast chargers for electric vehicles, as well as establishing natural gas refueling stations along key freight corridors and hydrogen stations in metropolitan centers. This investment also includes EV charging in more localized areas, such as apartment buildings, public places and workplaces.

Officials went on to say the infrastructure resulting from these investments will ensure that people can drive and charge their vehicles across Canada, as well as where they live, work and play.

And this week’s development is welcomed in the District of Summerland as mayor Toni Boot mentioned other actions the community is doing in connection with this broad endeavor.

“Early in 2020, the district finalized its Community Energy and Emissions Reduction Plan,” Boot said in the news release. “This document provides a framework for our climate action work and demonstrates our commitment to reducing net emissions. The news of this funding award fully supports the expansion of our EV-charging network and will benefit both locals and visitors.”