Aurora electric car drivers get a boost with 18 new charging stations

Project is part of town's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050

Yorkregion.com
Oct. 12, 2021
Lisa Queen

Electric car drivers in Aurora will get a charge out of this -- literally.

The town, in partnership with Ivy Charging Network, has expanded the number of stations where drivers can plug in their vehicles.

The installation of 18 Level 2 Ivy Charging Park and Charge stations at six town-owned facilities is complete, allowing drivers to “charge up” in a few hours.

Stations have been installed at the Joint Operations Centre, Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex, town hall, Aurora Family Leisure Complex, Aurora Community Centre and Aurora Armoury.

An additional four chargers will be installed in the future at the Aurora Town Square.

Users will be charged a fee to offset the costs of electricity and station maintenance.

The stations are part of the town’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the community by 80 per cent by 2050 to help fight climate change, Mayor Tom Mrakas said.

“Addressing climate change has been a top priority for our town and for this council. By increasing the number of charging stations in our community, and by providing faster charging options, we hope to see more people opting for greener vehicles in the future,” he said in a statement.

The new stations are part of the larger Ivy Charging Network, a joint venture between Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation, working to build Ontario’s largest, most connected EV fast-charger network, the town statement said.

The project is offered in partnership with municipalities and businesses and provides charging for drivers not in a rush, it said.

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Ivy is making charging easy, reliable and seamless with a dedicated app, 24/7 customer service, accessible locations with nearby amenities and easy payment options, the statement said.

“We are excited to partner with the Town of Aurora to increase the accessibility of EV chargers in the community and further support their transition to a cleaner future,” Ivy Network general manager Jesika Briones said.

“Ivy’s reliable and wide reaching network coverage will help EV drivers travel with confidence and ease to the places that matter most.”

Natural Resources Canada also provided support through its Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.

For more information about the town’s greening efforts, visit aurora.ca/climatechange.