Edmonton plans to install hundreds of charging stations for electric cars

Edmonton is making plans to install more than 200 electric car charging stations across the city in an attempt to kick-start more widespread use of greener vehicles.

The plan is contingent on a $1.2-million federal grant set to be decided in October.

The city’s matching funds would see 30 charging stations installed on city property, with 170 installed at movie theatres, restaurants and other private businesses starting in 2017. The stations would provide a full charge in four hours.

The plan also calls for four more expensive fast-charge stations located near the highways in and out of Edmonton.

These could provide a full charge in 30 minutes. A planning committee approved the plan Wednesday.

“We have to build momentum here,” said Mark Brostrom, director of city environmental strategies.

Edmonton only has 160 electric cars registered now, he said. There are few private places to charge a car now. It’s even difficult to buy a car because few dealerships have them on hand.

“Unless you create the plug-in infrastructure, you’re not going to get anywhere,” said Coun. Michael Walters, who has been trying to push the issue at City Hall.

He asked administration for a plan to further increase the network and set clear targets. Edmonton is also lobbying the province for a rebate program on electric car and charge station purchases.

As Alberta phases out coal-generated electricity, electric cars are becoming an important way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, since 30 per cent of emissions in Edmonton come from transportation, said Brostrom. They also improve local air quality.

But other jurisdictions have found they aren’t taking off without government incentives. The market could grow rapidly with new technology, more affordable vehicles and Alberta’s carbon tax, Brostrom said. “It can flip quickly. There are a lot of vehicles in this city and a lot are bought every year.”

Also at committee Wednesday, the Edmonton Youth Council said it is no longer recommending a solar power installation for City Hall, even if it would bring needed attention to the alternative energy.

“The best feasible sites are not necessarily the most glamorous,” said Elizabeth Gierl, a member of the council. Through further investigation they learned putting solar downtown requires more equipment to comply with Epcor regulations.

Instead, youth council members will work with city staff to chose more efficient sites on garages or suburban locations. An online dashboard can bring attention to these sites by reporting energy produced to the public in real time.