The Mayor for Ritchot says he cannot thank our provincial government enough for last week's funding announcement.
Chris Ewen is referring to our province's commitment to support the installation of new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across Manitoba. The Manitoba government is investing $500,000 through the Climate Action Fund for the installation of 51 EV chargers.
As part of that announcement, the Rural Municipality of Ritchot is receiving $141,100 for 20 level II EV chargers and three fast level II chargers.
"I can't thank the province enough," says Ewen. "We thank the Premier and the whole team from the provincial government in participating in Ritchot because without their help we wouldn't be able to offer different opportunities, so thank you."
Ewen says these charge stations significantly boost the availability for motorists wanting to charge their electric vehicles in Ritchot.
"If you are a tourist and you are stopping through one of the towns you can drop in and charge," he says. "But it also gives our fleet of electric vehicles an opportunity to charge throughout essentially anywhere in Ritchot without worrying of no charging."
According to Ewen, some of the charging stations through this funding announcement have already been installed. However, he notes it is great to have the upper levels of government participate with the municipality in this movement.
"Ritchot has always been proactive or creative in thinking of different ways to take advantage of the resources that each level of government has to offer us," admits Ewen. "So, we'd like to participate in the electric vehicle and charging station movement."
Ewen says depending on the station, they can cost anywhere from about $10,000 to $30,000 to install. He notes the $141,100 from the province matches what the federal government has provided.
"The net cost to the RM is zero," he says. "It's a huge win for us."
Ewen says installing electric vehicle charge stations simply offers another option for motorists. He admits that relying on an electric vehicle in Manitoba might not make the most sense for everyone, but the municipality wants to offer this option while at the same time helping the environment.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes says these stations boost the network of EV infrastructure, while driving the shift to greener transportation.
"Our government is committed to taking real action to fight climate change and the transition to electric vehicles will help drive down emissions," says Moyes. "As more Manitobans look to make the switch to electric vehicles, there is a growing need to ensure reliable charging infrastructure in strategic locations."
He notes this announcement helps support the expansion of Manitoba's EV charging network and collaborative planning for regional green transportation initiatives.