Unlocking Opportunities in BC's EV Sector

A province-wide alliance of universities, colleges, and polytechnic institutes has the potential to transform EV charging infrastructure in British Columbia. By leveraging their extensive real estate holdings and parking areas, these institutions can add much-needed charging stations while unlocking significant revenue opportunities. A BC Charging Alliance would provide a more reliable, accessible, and integrated charging network, addressing key customer challenges and improving overall system efficiency.

With 36 institutions and multiple campuses across the province, BC’s post-secondary sector is uniquely positioned to support EV adoption. A coordinated approach can enhance charger uptime, ensure price transparency, and optimize usage by linking different consumer groups to available chargers at various times of the day. By strategically placing chargers near campuses and high-traffic areas such as hospitals, stadiums, and retail centres, an alliance would accelerate the shift to electric mobility.

To advance this vision, Foresight Canada and Simon Fraser University, through the BC Net Zero Innovation Network, have formed an EV Alliance Working Group. This group has developed a Roadmap to guide decision makers, outlining key challenges, opportunities, and the business case for a BC-based Charging Alliance. The Roadmap provides a foundation for investment, partnerships, and financial planning, with Phase II planned to focus on detailed implementation strategies.

The Electric Vehicle Charging Alliance Roadmap, Phase I of the EV Charging Alliance project, is available for download below.