CANMORE – Canmore and Morley will soon be part of a network of electric vehicle charging stations installed throughout southern Alberta.
Earlier this week, the province announced it will provide $1.2 million to the Community Energy Association to build 20 new charging stations throughout the region.
Once it is completed, the Peaks to Prairies network will cover more than 1,700 kilometres of southern Alberta highways and allow electric vehicle owners to travel throughout the region unencumbered, according to a press released published on Feb. 4.
“Supporting new electric vehicle charging stations will help Alberta transition to a lower-carbon future,” wrote Shannon Phillips, the minister of environment and parks.
“This grassroots initiative is proof that Albertans are leading the way in projects that diversify our economy, create jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.”
According to the press release, the charging stations will be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy from the region and help address a gap in charging infrastructure across the southern part of the province.
“The Peaks to Prairies EV network exemplifies regional collaboration to build and diversify local economies, while contributing to climate action goals,” wrote Megan Lohmann, the project manager for the network.
A group of southern Alberta municipalities and economic development groups came together in 2016 to create the Peaks to Prairies project.
The aim of the project, which is expected to be completed by December 2019, is to develop a regional network to reduce emissions and stimulate economic development.
The network will use charging stations that are made in Canada by AddEnergie and ATCO Electric will install, own and operate it.
