BC Hydro's electric vehicle fast charging site operational in Kitimat
KITIMAT: A new BC Hydro electric vehicle fast charging site is now operational in Kitimat with a design that accommodates larger electric trucks and trailers. This new location adds to the company’s growing network of more than 125 public fast chargers in B.C.
"We are working to make it easier for drivers in B.C. to go electric and take advantage of B.C.’s clean, reliable hydroelectricity," says Hon. Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. "Kitimat joins our growing network in northern B.C. and the unique design of this dual station will allow for efficient charging of larger vehicles."
The Kitimat station opened December 20. It is located in the parking lot at City Centre Mall. The site includes two 50-kilowatt charging units. Each unit can add 50 kilometres of driving to an average electric vehicle in about 10 minutes. The station is one of four in the province that can accommodate large trucks and trailers because of it’s "pull-through" design. The other three are in Powell River, Lillooet and Fraser Lake.
"Kitimat is enjoying its rapidly diversifying infrastructure which promotes the adoption of electric vehicles," says Phil Germuth, Mayor of the District of Kitimat. "New charging stations in our community give our residents more incentive to adopt zero emission vehicles and also make our community an attractive place to visit for those who have already made the switch."
Transportation accounts for about 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in B.C. In September 2021, BC Hydro revealed its Electrification Plan, with initiatives to encourage B.C. residents, businesses and industries to switch to hydroelectricity from fossil fuels to help reduce carbon emissions. The plan encourages switching from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles.
"As the primary fuel supplier for electric vehicles, we are building out charging infrastructure to ensure we can accommodate the volume and variety of electric vehicles that will be on B.C. roads in the coming years," says Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro. “BC Hydro will add 325 charging units to its network at 145 sites within the next five years.”
BC Hydro’s provincewide fast charging network currently includes 130 charging units at 81 sites in communities throughout B.C. The chargers are funded in a partnership with the Province of B.C. and Natural Resources Canada.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
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