Overview of Plug in BC

In BC, 93% of electricity generated is clean energy. This makes electric vehicles a good option for BC drivers who want to cut greenhouse gas and other harmful emissions by driving cleaner and greener.

Plug in BC is helping lay the groundwork for the new generation of plug-in electric vehicles and electric charging infrastructure. The Province of BC launched the initiative in 2011, working with BC Hydro, the City of Vancouver, Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Basin Council (Green Fleets BC), academic institutions and other interests.

Since then, Plug in BC has helped fleets in rolling out their first plug-in electric cars. Now the focus is on building a BC-wide network of charging stations — to offer electric vehicle drivers greater security, peace of mind and extended travel options.

Community Charging Infrastructure Fund – new!

In April 2012, the Province of BC announced a $2.7 million Community Charging Infrastructure Fund to support a province-wide network of electric vehicle charging stations in 2012-2013. See the news release and backgrounder on the Province of BC website.

The goal is to build 570 charging stations serving members of the public or fleets, with participation of municipalities, regional governments, First Nations communities, BC businesses and other organizations. This charging infrastructure — to be in place by March 31, 2012 — is an important step in offering drivers options away from home.

Two incentives are available:

1. Charging Station Incentive

Some communities and businesses are now ready to install charging stations in specific locations. If so, they should review criteria for the Charging Stations Incentive and apply early. The early bird deadline is June 27, 2012 (for early review, selection and notification). The final application deadline is September 28, 2012, and subject to funding availability.

2. Planning Incentive

For communities (BC regional districts, municipalities and First Nations) that would like to carry out community or regional planning on electric vehicle charging infrastructure, funding is available to assist: see Planning Incentive. The deadline is June 27, 2012.

The CCI Fund is a joint initiative of the BC Ministry of Environment and BC Ministry of Energy and Mines, and administered by the Fraser Basin Council.

Plug-in BC helps BC Fleets

In 2011-2012 the Fraser Basin Council helped link up auto manufacturers and BC organizations that wanted to add plug-in electric vehicles to their fleets. This led to roll-out of the first-release Mitsubishi iMiev, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt and Mercedes-Benz Smart Fortwo Electric.

Related News & Incentives

Level 3 DC Fast Charging Stations — Three Level 3 DC fast charging stations are coming to BC, and the Province is planning a further 27 stations. Fast chargers recharge electric vehicle batteries in 15 to 20 minutes, extending driving range and travel options. The first faster charger is slated for Science World — watch for it!

City of Vancouver “Charge and Go” Pilot — The City of Vancouver and Province of BC are working together on a trial to introduce 67 electric vehicle charging stations city-wide. Visit the City of Vancouver website for details.

Clean Vehicle Incentives — Thinking electric? Visit LiveSmart BC to learn about other cost-cutters. There are point-of-sale incentives ($2,500-5,000) to defray the purchase price of qualifying new battery electric, fuel cell electric, plug-in hybrid electric and compressed natural gas vehicles, plus rebates of $500 on the purchase qualifying residential charging stations.