Owning a vehicle is common for many Canadians due to Canada’s significant geographical size. However, the large volume of transportation on Canadian roads comes with a high volume of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which account for close to 25% of Canada’s net emissions. The Canadian government is determined to accelerate the nation’s transition from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), which emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases over their lifetime.
The Canadian government initially intended for all vehicles to be zero-emissions by 2040. This timeline has been moved forward to 2035 in order to be a global leader in zero-emission vehicles.
“We’re making electric vehicles more affordable and charging more accessible where Canadians live, work and play. Investing in more EV chargers, like the ones announced today in St. Catharines, Ontario, will put more Canadians in the driver’s seat on the road to a net-zero future and help achieve our climate goals.”
Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources
The Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) is one of the programs making these goals a reality. The ZEVIP program, which will invest $680 million by 2027, will dramatically improve the electric vehicle landscape throughout the country with improved charging outlets through projects carried out by companies awarded ZEVIP cost-sharing contributions.
“Canadians expect clean air, good jobs and a strong economy. Smart investments, like the one here today, in expanding electric vehicle charging capacity, are crucial for St. Catharines and communities across Canada. These investments support our auto sector and make it easier for Canadians to transition to zero-emissions vehicles.”
Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines
What is the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP)?
The ZEVIP program is designed to improve the adoption of EVs throughout the country in order to improve accessibility of EV chargers. Below are some important details about what organizations and activities are supported.
Funding Amount
Eligible applicants for the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) may receive up to 50% funding to a maximum $5,000,000 per project. Funding allotments will be dependent on the type of infrastructure installed and decided by the funding program.
Eligible Applicants
In order to be eligible for the ZEVIP initiative, applicants must be a for-profit Canadian business in electricity or gas utilities or a not-for-profit association, such as academic institutions or municipalities.
Eligible Activities
Please note that application approvals are not guaranteed. However, the following activities are eligible for support under the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP):
- Installing EV charging and hydrogen refueling stations in the following areas:
- Public places;
- On-street areas;
- Multi-unit residential buildings;
- Workplaces that would benefit from EV stations; or
- For light-duty vehicle fleets.
- Proposal for EV charger projects must include at least two fast chargers of 50 kW and above, or installations of less than two fast chargers of 50 kW and above must have a minimum of 20 chargers of all charging levels is required;
- Must be an eligible technology;
- Must be capable of dispensing at 700 bar minimum;
- Must be a permanent installation located in Canada; or
- Must be new and purchased equipment that is owned not leased.
Eligible Expenses
Expenses that may be eligible for reimbursement through the ZEVIP initiative vary; however, the following expenses are considered:
- Expenditures for capital purchases;
- Salaries and benefits related to the charging installation project;
- Any necessary professional services;
- Rental fees, license and permit fees, and leasing costs; and
- Environmental assessment expenses.
Program Timelines
The next Intake deadline for the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) is August 11, 2022. Any project approved by ZEVIP must be completed within 30 months for EV Charging Projects and 36 months for Hydrogen Refueling Projects. Any project spends made prior to ZEVIP approval will not be eligible for funding.
More Funding Opportunities for Zero-Emissions Vehicles
The world of government funding programs is complex and changes often. However, there are many funding opportunities available to businesses that are working on EVs and zero-emissions vehicles, such as the Zero Emission Transit Fund. Visit our Cleantech Funding Programs Directory to see a comprehensive list of relatable programs that may be available to you. Get in touch with our team today to learn what opportunities are available to your business.
Also, make sure to sign up for one of our industry-leading events to learn the best ways to approach the funding landscape from industry-experts.