Blackfalds looking into adding more electric vehicle charging stations

There is already one EV charging station in Blackfalds, located behind Main Street Hardware.

The Electric Vehicle Charging Program covers up to 100 per cent of the costs up to $10,000 per port for each level 2 Charger (for charging over several hours) and up to $150,000 for each Fast Charger (for charging up to 30 minutes).

Town officials say the grant covers the funding needed for the charging station and equipment, install and construction costs, permitting and inspection costs, and signage costs. However, the grant does not cover the costs associated with having to route power to the stations.

The two proposed locations for the level 2 EV charging stations are Tutty Ponds and the Eagle Builders Centre because they are close to shopping, community events, and restaurants. The Abbey Centre was also considered but would not likely be a feasible site due to power constraints, say Town officials.

The proposed locations were a main talking point during the meeting with councillors questioning the viability of the locations.

“I think taking up a spot, just for that is not good for that facility because we’ve relaxed parking in it. Even with the original plan, parking was relaxed and I think that could be an issue over there. Maybe put it somewhere other than the Eagle Builders Centre.” said Councillor Brenda Dennis.

Even though there were concerns regarding the locations, council was in agreement the charging stations would be a positive addition to the municipality.

“I do think they would be a benefit to our community,” explained Councillor Rebecca Stendie, “I think it would be a great addition, but I do see some of the concerns other councillors are bringing up and I do have some of my own.”

Mayor Jamie Hoover believes with the right information and answers to council’s concerns, he would fully support applying for the grant because the application process would not need to be financed.

“There are a lot of people in our community that would support, that support the environment. From my perspective, for our community, I see a fit and I will be in support of this knowing that there is no financial commitment at this point,” he said.

As a part of the application, municipalities must provide intended rates for using the charging stations. Administration proposed there would be no fee attached because it would incentivize use of the stations. According to the proposal, the approximate cost to the municipality would be $2 per hour when in use.

Council is giving administration two weeks to get answers to some of the concerns including revised location proposals, estimated cost of running power to the unit, how much the current EV station in Blackfalds is being utilized, and which EV chargers are being used in nearby communities.

Blackfalds town council will ultimately vote on whether or not to apply for the grant at council’s next meeting on March 8.

by Phillip Maiani

Blackfalds looking into adding more electric vehicle charging stations

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