Jason Stupnikoff and Craig Hill use an EV charging station in downtown Vernon (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

EV Charger Improvements

B.C. Hydro improving EV charging accessibility

Sep 2, 2022 | 10:54 AM

Electric vehicle drivers will be able to access charging stations with greater ease in the future.

B.C. Hydro is working to make sure all new sites within the public EV fast-charging network are designed to be fully accessible, while also retrofitting existing locations over the next three years to offer accessible charging.

The B.C. Hydro Electrification Plan will see new fast charging sites designed to be barrier-free with wider parking stalls, paved access, lowered chargers, wider protective bollards, improved lighting and better signage.

Hardware vendors are also being encouraged to improve features on the equipment to make them more accessible, including lowering screens and cable management systems.

The Crown Corporation intends to improve inclusiveness and safety at all locations within the provincial network, which consists of 116 public charges at 78 sites across B.C.

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“More British Columbians are switching to an electric vehicle to take advantage of B.C.’s clean, reliable hydroelectricity,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low-Carbon Innovation.

“As we continue to build our public charging network across the province, it’s important to ensure that we design our stations to be safe and accessible for everyone.”

B.C. Hydro has also started building pull-through sites that can accommodate larger electric trucks and trailers. These sites are only located in Lillooet, Powell River and Fraser Lake currently.

“These equipment and layout enhancements at each of our sites will make them more accessible and improve the experience for all our customers,” says Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro.

“As our EV fast-charging network continues to grow and evolve, accessibility and safety are key priorities in the design of each site.”

B.C. Hydro continues to expand the EV fast charging network, with a goal of having 325 units operational at 145 sites throughout the province by the end of 2025.