Brock University is one step closer to offering widespread electric vehicle (EV) charging on campus.

After announcing earlier this year plans to introduce 20 EV chargers, made possible by funding from Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program and Brock’s own contributions, construction is now underway.

“We are giving Canadians the greener options they want to get to where they need to go,” said Minister of Natural Resources Seamus O’Regan Jr. “This is how we get to net-zero by 2050.”

The University has partnered with Blackstone Energy Services, who will supply and install 17 Level 2 and three Level 3 DC Fast ChargePoint EV charging stations in parking lots across Brock’s main campus. 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.

Drivers will be able to see real-time information including the availability of charging locations through ChargePoint’s mobile app, online and via the navigation systems in select EVs.

“By increasing the number of charging stations in our community, we hope to see more people opting for greener options in the future,” said Scott Johnstone, Senior Associate Vice-President, Infrastructure and Operations.

This project will make EV infrastructure more accessible, while also helping Brock to achieve one of its key strategic priorities, to enhance the life and vitality of Niagara and beyond.

An energy management firm delivering carbon reduction solutions for its clients, Blackstone is supporting Brock in its endeavour to increase adoption of EVs in the Niagara region.

“We are proud to partner with Brock to provide important EV infrastructure that will aid in transportation emission reductions,” said Grant McArthur, Blackstone’s Vice-President Renewables. “This project, along with the University’s participation in our vehicle-to-grid demonstration project, will continue to promote electric vehicle adoption.”

The EV charging stations will be operational by this fall. Details about their locations across campus will be announced in the coming months.

For more information and EV driver support, please visit the ChargePoint website.