Northwest Territories Launches First Electric Vehicle Corridor

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in the Northwest Territories can now travel more confidently between Yellowknife and Alberta, as the Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) recently announced the launch of its first EV corridor. This corridor connects Fort Smith with key communities including Hay River, Enterprise, Fort Providence, Behchoko, and Yellowknife. Plans are in place to extend this network to Buffalo Junction in the future.

On September 9, coinciding with World Electric Vehicle Day, Minister responsible for Strategic Infrastructure, Energy and Supply Chains, Caroline Wawzonek, highlighted the significance of this initiative. “Completing the NWT’s first electric vehicle charging corridor is a major achievement for the territory,” she stated. “It shows what we can accomplish when we invest in sustainable infrastructure that supports our climate goals, economic development, and quality of life for Northerners.”

The corridor includes a network of Level 2 and Level 3 charging stations, allowing for efficient travel to and from Alberta. The total investment for this project amounted to $4.1 million, funded by the GNWT through programs supported by federal initiatives.

Charging Infrastructure and Economic Impact

Level 3 chargers, which can charge most EVs in under an hour, are a significant feature of this corridor. For example, charging an EV in Hay River takes approximately 35 minutes and costs around $20. The charging stations are equipped with two Level 2 outlets for longer stops in addition to the fast chargers.

According to the GNWT, operating an EV can be up to four times cheaper per kilometre compared to gasoline-powered vehicles, especially in hydro-powered communities. This financial benefit is expected to encourage more residents to consider electric vehicles as a viable option.

The charging stations will be operated by local utilities, including Naka Power Utilities in Yellowknife, Enterprise, and Fort Providence. Manager Vic Barr expressed pride in supporting the development of the EV charging corridor, stating, “Partnering with the Government of the Northwest Territories on this initiative reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable transportation and empowering communities through cleaner energy solutions.”

In other areas like Hay River, Fort Smith, and Behchoko, the NWT Power Corporation will manage the charging stations. President and CEO Cory Strang confirmed the network’s functionality, noting, “Having travelled much of the corridor and making use of EV charging stations along the way, I can confirm that the network of stations makes it possible to travel long distances in the NWT.”

Future Expectations and Community Benefits

The establishment of this corridor aims to significantly reduce vehicle emissions, with the GNWT targeting a 10 percent reduction by 2030. As of March 2024, there were 49 electric vehicles and 24 charging stations that had received rebates under the GNWT’s rebate program, which has now concluded. Nonetheless, rebates may still be accessible through the Arctic Energy Alliance.

Officials anticipate that this new infrastructure will not only facilitate easier travel for EV users but also promote tourism and bolster the local economy. By investing in electric vehicle charging options, the GNWT is taking a notable step towards building a cleaner, more interconnected future for the region.