SolarBank Corporation, a leading renewable energy developer, has taken a significant step towards accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in Ontario. The company has submitted grant applications totaling $1.5 million for three fast EV charger projects strategically located across the province. These projects are a joint venture between SolarBank, AI Renewable, and a First Nation community, underscoring the company’s commitment to fostering clean transportation and collaborating with Indigenous communities.
The projects represent AI Renewable’s initial foray into EV charging infrastructure, and they are poised to further diversify SolarBank’s already impressive project portfolio. The applications were submitted under the Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP), aiming to secure maximum grant funding subject to approval. The anticipated completion date for the projects is set for the fourth quarter of 2026, with the results of the grant applications expected by January 2025.
SolarBank will act as the turnkey developer, asset manager, and operations and maintenance (O&M) provider for these projects, ensuring their seamless operation and maximizing their positive impact. The total cost of the projects is estimated to be $2.3 million, with two of the projects in Peterborough and Milton also undergoing review for grant funding through the Ontario government’s EV ChargeON program.
These projects mark a crucial step in SolarBank’s commitment to developing innovative and sustainable energy solutions. The company’s comprehensive approach, which includes developing solar, battery energy storage systems, and EV charging projects, positions it as a key player in the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.