EV Charging in Canada

The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to steadily grow on a nearly daily basis. According to data released by StatsCan, the EV adoption rate translates into an increased market share of 5.8 percent in Q1 of 2022 and its rise does not appear to be slowing. To keep pace with the growing demand and stay on track to reach Canada’s goal for 100% emission-free vehicle sales by 2035, EV charging infrastructure must be a priority. There are currently only 13,000+ charging stations across Canada, so the amount must multiply for ease of accessibility. A feat that doesn’t seem so intimidating in urban areas but is proving to be more difficult in rural areas.

Problem: Urban and Rural Area Charging Infrastructure Imbalance

Data obtained during a survey conducted by Leger for the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturer’s Association (CVMA) provided insights into the reasons suburban and rural Canadians are apprehensive about making the transition to EVs. Limited driving range and high purchase price proved to be the top concerns, followed closely by the lack of charging infrastructure which deterred even 46% of urbanites, despite charging stations at many business spaces and along major highways.

1. The lack of service stations results in further travel for routine maintenance.
2. Difficulties accessing spares mean longer wait times for repairs.
3. Lack of familiarity with technology contributes to fear of safety concerns.

Mr. David Adams, President & CEO of the Global Automakers of Canada (GAC) said, “Canada will not achieve its ambitious electric vehicle sales targets without significantly more investments in charging infrastructure, sustained incentives funding and favourable EV tax policies”. In his opinion, and based on the data, we must act swiftly as a country.

Idea: Power Capacity and Chargers Required

Unlike urban areas, most rural areas have only a partially developed electric vehicle infrastructure. Even though Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan will invest $300 million over 5 years to ensure rural, remote and Indigenous communities have the opportunity to be powered by clean, reliable energy, it will take years for these areas to be able to support high loads, with their goal date of 2030.

1. Limited power output restricts the vehicles that can be charged.
2. Inadequate power supply means EV owners cannot make full use of charging stations.
3. Low funding makes it more difficult to install expensive equipment, including public charging stations.

All is not lost though. Meticulous planning can aid in resolutions, such as business owners collecting funds through issued vouchers or grants, thereby increasing the amount the rural energy sector can accrue.

Solution: Country-wide EV Charging Station Installation

“Infrastructure is the biggest thing,” Peter Hatges, partner, national sector leader, automotive at KPMG Canada, said. Installing EV charging stations across the country, even in areas where they may not be used extensively, will ensure a more robust charging network and encourage an even distribution of EVs between rural and urban areas. Interconnecting the EV charging station map country-wide will take cooperation between the EV charging station companies, federal government, and electricity providers, but it will also result in many benefits.

1. Economic and regional growth
2. Tourism boosts as EVs could travel across provincial borders
3. Long-term EV implementation
4. Eliminating range anxiety for EV owners

However, these are not the only reasons the installation of EV charging stations throughout the country is a good investment for all.

Reasons to Install EV Charging Stations

In response to the increase in EV production, several companies, including Tesla and Petro-Canada, have begun building national charging networks, making it the right time to install EV charging stations wherever possible. Among many other reasons, the 3 main factors are as follows:

1. Sustainability

Electric vehicles are the way of the future, and during this critical time of growth, they should be promoted extensively. Charging infrastructure is directly linked to their market share and those willing to install charging stations in business spaces are being provided with accessibility and the required support.

• For assisting the government in laying the foundation for infrastructure, operators can obtain land at a subsidized rate.
• Environmental policies are being created to encourage private owners and OEM participation.
• Integration of renewable energy sources allows for further reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Reducing GHG emissions and other air pollutants, while conserving the reserves of crude oil, is a primary advantage of electric vehicles and subsequently, EV charging stations. As always, the goal is to help make a carbon-neutral, and eventually free, planet.

• Revenue Generation for Businesses

Increasing company revenue through future-ready technology and innovations allows businesses to monetize, no matter the type of business space, and the installation of EV charging stations offers many opportunities to do so.

• Not only are landlords being offered contract extensions, but property owners and tenants will also see a surge in visitors, resulting in increased business.
• Hourly charging fees and loyalty program rates can be introduced for EV owners that wish to use business-owned facilities.
• Advertising and/or digital signage can be contracted out and placed near EV charging stations.

Not only will this provide businesses with a revenue boost, but it also comes with a reputation boost, since the eco-friendly label can be displayed proudly.

• Incentives

With their commitment to a greener future, the Government of Canada now offers incentive programs to those businesses and companies that wish to install EV charging stations. New technology often comes with higher upfront costs, and these incentives aim to solve that problem.

• NRCAN, a government rebate program, allows eligible businesses to receive up to 50% of the total EV charging station cost.
• Utility companies are making flexible rates accessible to further encourage business owners to commit to the installation of EV charging stations.
• Rural electric cooperatives can offer flexible rates to reduce charging costs for increased adoption

These incentives provide potential EV charging station owners with the ability to lower costs, further saving money while increasing revenue long-term.

With such irrefutable benefits, it’s hard to imagine why a business wouldn’t want to invest in the future of electric vehicles, charging stations and by extension, the wellbeing of the planet. The only limitation now is, where can these charging stations be obtained and who has the expertise to install them?

Step into the Future with EnerSavings

EnerSavings, Canada’s leading energy management company, provides businesses with complete EV charging station solutions. Whether Level 2 or Level 3, networked or non-networked, we’ll find the right solution for your business, starting with a free property assessment and custom proposal. Additionally, for further ease of implementation, we handle the government incentive process, from pre-application to post-submission, with incentive dollars being deposited directly into your account. Learn more about our EV charging stations by visiting www.enersavings.com/evcharging or contacting us at info@enersaving.com. Together, we can reach zero emissions within Canada for a better future for everyone.