Backed by $850,000 in federal funding, the Municipal Electric Vehicle Initiative will help install over 100 chargers across the province

A new funding program is helping municipalities, Indigenous communities and local organizations across Saskatchewan expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

The Municipal Electric Vehicle Initiative (MEVi), administered by Eco-West Canada, a not-for-profit working to promote the sustainable economic development in rural communities, will provide financial support for the installation of public EV charging stations throughout the province.

Natural Resources Canada is providing partial funding for the program. A total of $850,000 is available and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligible applicants include municipalities, Indigenous communities, co-operatives, and non-profit organizations working to advance sustainable transportation and public benefit.

The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) and the Municipal Eco-Action Centre are also partners in the project to help with community engagement.

“The Municipal Electric Vehicle Initiative will help local governments access the funding and support they need to build EV infrastructure that fits their communities,” says Jean-Marc Nadeau, CEO of SUMA in a press statement.

Saskatchewan currently holds the highest per capita greenhouse gas emissions of any province in Canada.

“Our partnership with Eco-West ensures municipalities have the tools to cut emissions, support healthier communities and prepare for the future of transportation,” adds Nadeau.

Program details

Over the next two years, MEVi aims to install at least 104 Level 2 EV charging stations and eight DC fast chargers throughout Saskatchewan.

The program offers to cover up to 75 per cent of eligible project costs for Indigenous communities and businesses, and up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs for non-Indigenous applicants.

Incentives are capped based on charger type and size, with per-unit maximums ranging from $5,000 for Level 2 chargers to $75,000 for high-capacity fast chargers (100 kW and above).

Applicants can install charging infrastructure in a wide range of locations, such as town halls, municipal parking lots, recreational centres, arenas, workplaces, fleet depots, multi-unit residential buildings (with at least three units), and on-street sites.

The MEVi program does not provide retroactive funding. Participants must complete all projects and submit the required documentation to Eco-West Canada by December 31, 2026.

“The MEVi funding makes it easier for municipalities and organizations to reduce emissions and build accessible EV infrastructure,” concludes Dany Robidoux, executive director of Eco-West Canada.