COQUITLAM: BC Hydro and TransLink are helping to create a more sustainable and convenient transportation network with the launch of a new electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging hub at the Coquitlam Central Park and Ride, providing space for up to 15 EVs to charge at the same time. “This new electric vehicle charge hub in Coquitlam continues our work with BC Hydro and other partners to make cleaner options more accessible and affordable for all British Columbians,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “With more than 800 BC Hydro charging ports now available in communities throughout B.C., we are building a public charging network that’s ready to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles and will support economic growth in our province.” The hub features four 180-kilowatt chargers, which can add up to 180-kilometres of driving to an average EV in about 10 minutes. In addition to being faster, the units also offer dual charging or power sharing, which allows two customers to use the same charger. For example, a 180-kilowatt charger can adjust to provide two 90-kilowatt charging units, which allows up to eight EVs to use these four chargers at once. There are also seven Level 2 chargers which can accommodate drivers based on the duration of their stay. The site features chargers equipped with CCS, NACS, CHAdeMO and J-1772 connectors in various configurations to accommodate a wide range of EVs. "Transportation accounts for 40 per cent of British Columbia's greenhouse gas emissions and that's why it's critical we support commuters with clean transportation options," said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. "This partnership between BC Hydro and TransLink is a great example of the work we're doing to provide more EV drivers with access to fast-charging in communities throughout British Columbia." BC Hydro also has existing EV fast-charging sites at TransLink Park and Ride locations in Port Coquitlam and South Surrey. The three sites now provide a combined 53 charging ports for EV users. “Adding new EV chargers at Coquitlam Central Park and Ride is another way we’re improving convenience and supporting the trips people take every day,” said Kevin Quinn, CEO of TransLink. “When it’s easier to connect to transit, more customers can choose it with confidence. It’s a small change that helps make lower-carbon sustainable travel an easy choice.” The adoption of EVs across British Columbia has increased significantly with more than 220,000 EVs on the road in B.C. As BC Hydro continues to build its fast-charging network, it plans to focus on building more hub sites with multiple chargers along highway corridors and highly populated areas to provide a faster and more convenient experience for its customers. “We’re expanding B.C.’s clean electricity supply and strengthening our provincial grid to power homes, businesses, industry and the future of transportation,” said Charlotte Mitha, President and CEO of BC Hydro. “This partnership between BC Hydro and TransLink is all about convenience and provides drivers with more accessible and reliable charging options they can use while taking public transit through the Lower Mainland.” BC Hydro is working to build a robust EV charging network across the province. Recent milestones include:
BC Hydro’s provincewide fast charging network currently includes 853 charging ports at 182 sites in communities throughout B.C. The chargers are funded in a partnership with the Province of B.C. and Natural Resources Canada. Facts:
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