Brock University will soon become a leader in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within higher education in Ontario thanks to funding from Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.
Combining the government funding of $235,000 with Brock’s own contributions will allow the University to install 20 EV charging stations on its main campus, including 17 Level 2 and three Level 3 DC Fast Charge stations. Level 3 charging is particularly important for people who travel from outside Niagara, as they can charge a near-empty battery to 80 per cent in as little as 20 minutes.
“Canadians want greener options to get to where they need to go. We’re giving it to them. This is how we get to net zero by 2050,” said Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.
Adding the chargers is a step toward a number of important goals for Brock.
“The additional EV charging infrastructure at the main Brock campus will contribute to our Strategic Plan goal of enhancing the life and vitality of our local region and beyond,” said Scott Johnstone, Senior Associate Vice-President, Infrastructure and Operations. “Since the Brock campus is open to the Niagara community, the investment also supports the adoption of EVs in the Niagara region through the reduction of carbon emissions.”
The initiative also falls in line with Brock’s guiding value of sustainable, accountable and transparent stewardship.
“As more and more consumers feel comfortable purchasing EVs due to the accessibility of charging stations, less CO2 emissions will be emitted into the air,” said Ed Wall, Acting Associate Vice-President, Ancillary Services. “This project helps Brock remain committed to stewardship and will have positive impacts on environmental resources to ensure a sustainable future for the community.”
The initiative will play a key role in Brock and the region’s climate change adaptation efforts and work toward a low-carbon future, Wall added.
“Investing in EV charging stations at Brock University is one way of achieving net zero by 2050,” said Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre. “This investment will offer confidence in greener choices and opportunities, including a greener economy and a more sustainable future for students, residents and travellers.”
With the funding in place, it’s expected the 20 charging stations will be installed across the Brock campus parking lots over the coming months and be operational by this fall.
“Investments in green infrastructure are bringing us closer to a zero-emission future, in addition to helping Ontarians make greener choices, improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” added Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines. “We are proud to support Brock University’s efforts to provide students, employees and residents with more transportation options.”
Written by: Erica Harper and Elenore Breslow
