Toronto, Ontario -- Aviva Canada is investing in public EV infrastructure.
Through its Charged for Change program, the auto insurer is funding the installation of Level 2 charging stations in 10 Canadian communities. The donation was made in partnership with Earth Day Canada.
The chargers will be set up in the Qathet Region in British Columbia, Gravelobourg and Radisson in Saskatchewan,Thames Centre, Essex and Fort Erie in Ontario, Otterburn Park in Quebec, the Municipality of Neguac and Village of Arcadia in New Brunswick and the We'koqma'q First Nation in Nova Scotia.
Since 2023, the program has provided $3 million each year to help small, underserved communities get ahead of the EV curve. So far, 25 communities have received funding under the program. According to Earth Day Canada the lack of access to EV charging stations presents a very real economic and environmental barrier for small communities in Canada.
“For three years, Charged for Change and our partnership with Aviva Canada has supported small, rural communities across Canada in making their EV public infrastructure projects a reality,” said Valérie Mallamo, executive director of Earth Day Canada. “We’re very excited for this final cohort of communities to benefit from the program and to see them support EV adoption for their residents.”
She added that the success is proof that smaller municipalities and First Nations communities want to lead the charge—literally—toward a lower-emissions future. This sentiment was echoed by several representatives of the First Nations communities receiving new charging stations.
“This funding allows us to invest in cleaner transportation and infrastructure, helping us reduce emissions and move towards energy independence,” said Jordan Keeling, director of public works, We'koqma'q First Nation. “Receiving this support is a huge step forward for our community and we are excited about the positive impact it will have for generations to come.”
“By expanding access to EV charging in underserved areas, we are supporting sustainable transportation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering tourism and strengthening local and regional economies,” added Mikhael Drosdovech, manager of assets and capital projects, Qathet Regional District. “This funding is a crucial step in advancing our climate action goals and ensuring a more connected and resilient future for our communities.”
