BC Hydro has announced that a new electric vehicle fast-charging site is now operational in Gold River.
The new Gold River charging station, located next to the Gold River Tourist Information Centre near the junction of Highway 28 and Scout Lake Road, opened to the public on March 31.
BC Hydro says the charge site includes two 50-kilowatt charging units, with each unit being able to add 50 kilometres of driving to an average electric vehicle in about 10 minutes.
“We are working to make it easier for drivers in B.C. to go electric and take advantage of B.C.’s clean, reliable hydroelectricity,” says Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low-Carbon Innovation. “This location in Gold River will help make public charging more convenient as a growing number of people on Vancouver Island shift to an electric vehicle.”
The location is also wheelchair accessible and has newly installed lighting to enhance safety for users, according to Michele Babchuk, MLA for North Island. She also feels that the new station is situated in a convenient location for drivers using Highway 28.
“This charge site in Gold River opens another section of Vancouver Island to electric vehicle tourism,” Babchuk adds.
Brad Unger, Mayor of Gold River, is also happy to see the station added to his community.
“The number of electric vehicles in B.C. is growing and this site will make it possible for travellers to visit our community and the surrounding area. We are thankful for BC Hydro’s efforts to make this a reality,” Unger said.
BC Hydro says that the new Gold River station adds to the company’s network of fast chargers, which now includes over 100 locations in 78 different communities across B.C.
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