Up to $300,000 will be awarded to projects focused on EV charging and clean fuels, with NRCan’s call for proposals open until April 30

Natural Resources Canada is now accepting proposals for funding to support education and awareness projects focused on electric vehicle charging and clean fuels.

On-road transportation accounts for 18 per cent of Canada’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to NRCan. Key barriers remain in the transition to zero-emission vehicles, particularly around concerns over charging infrastructure and public understanding of clean fuel technologies.

“These concerns often stem from gaps in knowledge and first-hand experience with charging infrastructure,” states the government. “Significant gaps in awareness and understanding of the use and opportunities provided by clean fuels is [also] hindering acceptance and adoption in Canada.”

To address these challenges and help boost adoption, the new funding call is highlighting two areas of focus:

• Electric vehicle charging, charging infrastructure and operation projects that aim to close knowledge gaps among Canadians. (Projects focused only on medium- and heavy-duty vehicles or micromobility solutions such as e-scooters and e-bikes are not eligible); and
• Clean fuels awareness projects that target awareness and knowledge gaps related to all clean fuel types and technologies, such as hydrogen vehicles, renewable biofuels and heating systems using clean fuels, across industries, commercial applications and the general public.

RFP details and eligibility

NRCan is open to funding a variety of projects that align with its key focus areas. However, proposals that closely resemble previously funded projects in deliverables, target audiences, or locations, will not be considered.

Some examples of projects that are eligible for funding include:

• Education and awareness campaigns on EV charging and clean fuels;
• Public outreach and engagement events;
• Development of web-based educational resources; and
• Initiatives to improve knowledge of charging, refuelling and clean fuel technologies.

All projects must have a national reach, says NRCan or specifically focus on underserved regions in the territories, prairie provinces, Atlantic Canada and rural areas.

As for government contributions, accepted projects created by for-profit organizations are eligible to receive up to 50 per cent of total project costs, with a maximum of $100,000 for one-year projects and $200,000 for two-year projects.

Meanwhile, projects run by non-profits, governments or Indigenous organizations are eligible for up to 75 per cent of total project costs, with a maximum of $100,000 for one-year projects and $300,000 for two-year projects.

The call for proposals will close on April 30.