The Osoyoos Indian Band and FortisBC yesterday officially opened the first two publicly available electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in a First Nation community in British Columbia.
Located in Osoyoos and Oliver, the two DC fast charging stations feature unique artwork created by the Osoyoos Indian Band Youth Council. The drawings represent Chief Salmon, one of the four Food Chiefs integral to the traditions of the Syilx/Okanagan Peoples.
“We’re grateful for the partnership with the Osoyoos Indian Band and honoured to feature artwork created by such a talented local artist from the Youth Council,” said Doug Stout, FortisBC vice president. “For us, this unique artwork will serve as a permanent reminder of the value of partnership in driving forward our shared goal of a cleaner, energy future.”
The two new stations are strategically located in the interior of B.C. to allow EV drivers to travel between the province’s eastern and western regions. When the border re-opens, they will also allow for easy travel between Canada and the US.
The DC fast chargers provide up to 50kW of power, and are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Set up as part of the Flo network, the chargers will cost $0.30 per minute to operate.
The Osoyoos fast charging station is located along Highway 3, in proximity to the Spirit Ridge Resort. The Oliver station is located north of the city along Highway 97, close to Senkulmen Enterprise Park.
FortisBC currently operates 23 stations across the interior of the province, with 16 more under construction.
Last year the Stoney Nakoda First Nation community opened up the first EV charger on First Nation land in Alberta.
