The Ivy Charging Network, owned by Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation, is Ontario’s largest, most connected fast-charger network, with 73 locations and 160 chargers across the province from north to south and east to west. CIMA+ is providing engineering services for the installation of EV charging stations over three phases:
- Phase I: installation of 50kW EV chargers at 36 locations across Ontario
- Phase II: installation of 50kW and 150kW EV chargers at an additional 30 sites
- Phase III: installation of 50kW and 150kW EV chargers at an additional 2 sites
The goal of the program is to deploy EV charging infrastructure throughout Ontario to facilitate long-distance travel with electric vehicles, with multiple strategic locations chosen to facilitate access to charging points in high-traffic areas.
The project won a Project of the Year Award from the Ontario Public Works Association in the Environmental Sustainability—Pathway to Net Zero category.
Giving the best EV charging experience to drivers
A priority of the project is to provide the best possible on-the-go, fast-charging service by delivering a seamless and consistent experience across Ontario. This will be achieved through a network of charging stations that uses the same technology and equipment. The program provides the required infrastructure for EV owners to confidently travel outside of their home regions and have access to rapid chargers. The network also makes it easier for owners of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles to consider using EVs to travel to major towns within the province by reducing EV range anxiety.
Reducing Ontario’s transportation emissions and supporting Canada’s commitment to fighting climate change
The program is being funded by Natural Resources Canada as a part of the government’s commitment to support green infrastructure projects. The transportation sector is Ontario’s largest source of greenhouse gases, accounting for roughly 30% of the province’s total emissions. EV drivers in Ontario reduce their contribution to climate change and air pollution by over 90% by not consuming fossil fuels to power their cars. An electric vehicle’s only greenhouse gas emissions come from the generation of electricity and in Ontario, that electricity is generated mostly from renewable sources, making Ontario one of the most environmentally friendly places in the world to own an EV.