Firstly, the bulk of the funding – CA$5 million – has been earmarked for 16 new fast chargers within the province’s eCharge network. According to authorities, the Energy Department will collaborate with NB Power to install the new fast chargers in areas ‘underserved’ by the private sector.
Energy Minister René Legacy said: “Growing New Brunswick’s network of electric vehicle chargers – especially fast-charging ports – is key to reducing range anxiety for electric vehicle drivers. NB Power does a great job of managing the network of public chargers, which is essential in cutting down reliance on fossil fuels, and reassuring for those who are considering making the switch to electric.”
Additional funds of CA$100,000 are also being put towards new charging stations at provincial parks République, Mactaquac and Herring Cove, in a move the government says will improve the visitor experience and support regenerative tourism in the region.
Furthermore, CA$955,000 has been allocated to replace ageing vehicles within the government’s fleet with new battery-electric models, as well as install the charging infrastructure necessary to support them. To this end, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is set to establish three regional charging hubs in Moncton, Saint John and Miramichi. According to the provincial government, the move is intended to reduce fleet emissions while lowering long-term operating and maintenance costs.
