The Manitoba government continues to drive efforts to get more electric vehicles (EV) on the road by investing in additional charging infrastructure in Winnipeg and rural Manitoba.
“As more Manitobans look to make the switch to electric vehicles, access to reliable charging infrastructure in strategic locations is required,” said Environment and Climate Minister Kevin Klein. “I commend leaders from business, industry, academia and the community who are active players in working together to make green transportation projects like this a reality.”
The Manitoba government is providing a $176,000 grant to Eco-West Canada, a Manitoba-based not-for-profit focused on advancing green infrastructure. Through this new initiative, Eco-West will work with local business owners to support the installation of new EV chargers at three McDonald’s restaurant locations in Winnipeg. Additionally, Eco-West will work with Gardewine, an industry leader in freight and logistics located in Winnipeg, to support further charging infrastructure.
“Our guests’ needs are at the heart of everything we do and I am proud to be able to offer them the option to charge their electric vehicles with these new charging stations,” said Amit Kapoor, a McDonald’s Canada franchisee in Winnipeg. “This support from the Manitoba government and Eco-West makes it convenient for our patrons to enjoy our food, while recharging their vehicles for the road ahead.”
Earlier this year, the Manitoba government unveiled $150,000 in support for an initiative led by Eco-West Canada to install eight new EV charging stations across the province.
The minister also announced the final round of EV chargers through this initiative will be installed at The Pas Civic Centre, Thompson Regional Community Centre, and the TC Energy Centre in Ile des Chênes.
Previously, the Manitoba government announced the installation of chargers in the Village of Dunnottar, and the communities of Holland, Cypress River and Treherne.
“This announcement confirms the importance of a strong partnership between the Manitoba government and our subsidiary, Eco-West Canada,” said Justin Johnson, chief executive officer, Association of Manitoba Bilingual Municipalities. “Through the delivery of these innovative projects, the Manitoba government is leveraging Eco-West Canada’s expertise and leadership to achieve the targets set out in its Made-in-Manitoba Climate and Green Plan, and to work together to ensure that Manitoba’s communities and economy are stronger and more resilient in the face of climate change.”
These projects help support technology and infrastructure needed to expand Manitoba’s EV charging network and support collaborative planning for regional green transportation initiatives, the minister noted.
“The business community, municipalities, and the general public all have a role to play in the transition to an increased use of electric vehicles in Manitoba,” said Dany Robidoux, executive director, Eco-West Canada. “We are very pleased in the trust that the Manitoba government is showing in Eco-West Canada’s ability to engage with community stakeholders who are interested in doing their part in building a more resilient, clean and prosperous Manitoba.”
Additionally, the Manitoba government has announced a new $500,000 investment for Eco-West that focuses on helping mobilize municipalities to advance initiatives related to green infrastructure, circular economy, climate action and resiliency, the minister added.
