Media release

For immediate release

Saanich launches survey for the Electric Mobility Strategy

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is getting moving on a survey that presents the actions proposed for inclusion in the Electric Mobility Strategy. This strategy forms a key part of implementing the 2020 Saanich Climate Plan and will support Saanich’s targets of becoming a 100 per cent renewable energy community and cutting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in half by 2030 and to net zero by 2050.

Electric mobility actions

The survey invites residents to comment on 38 actions that support a rapid transition to climate-friendly transportation in Saanich through electric vehicles (EVs), electric bicycles (e-bikes), EV charging stations and more.

“As our residents may know, Saanich has made great progress on electric mobility and this ambitious strategy will see us well into the future,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “By following these proposed actions, we can be bold, ambitious and courageous, leading by example and driving closer to our net zero goal for 2050.”

Transportation is the largest driver of climate change in Saanich. Transitioning from fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel to low-carbon electricity on the road will reduce local air pollution as well as climate changing GHG emissions, while providing opportunities for cost savings for residents.

As part of the Electric Mobility Strategy, Saanich will expand the public EV charging network by adding 20 new Level 2 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at six municipal facilities and four Saanich parks in 2021 with funding support from Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.

Last year, Saanich replaced 10 hybrid cars and one pickup truck with fully electric vehicles adding to the growing municipal electric fleet. By transitioning to these electric vehicles, the District will avoid burning 8,700 litres of gasoline a year, reducing fuel costs and GHG emissions. The electric vehicles’ lower maintenance costs are expected to deliver a further $10-15,000 savings over their lifespan.

What you can do

The survey and draft Electric Mobility Strategy can be found at saanich.ca/climateplan. The survey is open until September 27. Feedback from this survey will be used to finalize the Electric Mobility Strategy before it is presented to Saanich Council for approval later in 2020.

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Media contact:
Rebecca Newlove
Manager of Sustainability
rebecca.newlove@saanich.ca
250-217-2457