New Brunswick has announced a major initiative to tackle climate change by allocating nearly $64 million through its climate change fund. This investment will support 72 projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping the province shift toward a greener economy. Among these projects, three will specifically focus on expanding the electric vehicle charging network. The government plans to install 16 fast-charging stations and a total of 29 new charging ports with $5 million of the funding. These new stations will help reduce drivers' range anxiety and encourage greater adoption of electric vehicles.
A key component of the initiative is the collaboration between the Department of Energy and NB Power. They plan to install fast-charging stations in areas where private companies have not invested. These stations will focus on high-demand locations, such as rural or less-visited regions. In these areas, EV owners often struggle to find charging options. According to Minister René Legacy, expanding the network of fast-charging ports is essential. He said it is essential for overcoming the fear of running out of power. He also said it is essential for building confidence in electric vehicles. He noted electric vehicles are a viable transportation option. He praised NB Power for its role in managing the public EV charging system. He noted how this effort helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The province is also developing regional EV charging hubs in three key cities—Moncton, Saint John, and Miramichi. These hubs will serve as central points for both local residents and travelers. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is allocating $955,000 to the effort to expand the provincial fleet of electric vehicles and install additional charging stations in government-owned locations. Minister Chuck Chiasson stated that the funding will help ensure the province’s government fleet remains modern and sustainable, furthering the transition toward a low-carbon transportation system.
In addition to urban and fleet locations, New Brunswick is also investing $100,000 in expanding EV charging infrastructure at three provincial parks. République Provincial Park, Mactaquac Provincial Park, and Herring Cove Provincial Park will each receive new charging stations, complementing the existing options already available at these popular destinations. Minister Isabelle Thériault explained that these charging stations are designed to attract more electric vehicle travelers to the province, enhance their overall experience, and promote longer stays. This aligns with the broader goal of creating a welcoming environment that supports sustainable tourism.
The Department of Environment and Local Government, the Department of Energy, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture are all working together. They are working together on the initiative. Minister Gilles LePage emphasized that the expansion of EV charging infrastructure is a vital step. He said it is a vital step toward meeting the province’s 2030 emissions reduction targets. He also said it is a vital step toward the long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The project reflects the province’s ongoing commitment. It reflects the commitment to making New Brunswick a more environmentally friendly destination. It reflects the commitment to making it an accessible destination for all.