takeCHARGE Launches First-Ever EVerything EVs Roadshow

(St. John’s, NL): takeCHARGE, a joint initiative between Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, brought electric vehicles (EVs), owners and dealers together at the Farmers’ Market in St. John’s today at the first-ever takeCHARGE EVerything EVs Roadshow. Attendees, including members of the public, were able to get up close and personal with EVs and ask questions to those most familiar with the vehicles. More drivers are becoming interested in learning about EVs and how the driving experience compares to a traditional vehicle. The takeCHARGE team was there to assist drivers in getting the information they need to decide if an EV is right for them. Today marked the first of these EV events that takeCHARGE has planned for this summer. The Everything EVs Roadshow will be stopping in additional locations including Corner Brook and Gander.

The EVerything EVs Roadshow was made possible in partnership with Natural Resources Canada through a $200,000 contribution from the Zero-Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative to support zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) awareness projects. Reducing emissions from the transportation sector is critical to achieving Canada’s climate targets and keeping our air clean. The Government of Canada is ensuring that people can be confident in purchasing and driving emission-free electric cars across the country.

“Through awareness events such as the one today, we’re equipping Canadians with the awareness and knowledge they need to confidently make the switch to a zero-emission vehicle,” said the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources. “Ensuring easy access to ZEVs across Canada is a critical part of our plan to lower emissions and achieve our international climate goals. Through these and similar investments, we are putting more Canadians in the driver’s seat on the road to a net-zero future.”

“These events provide a great opportunity for our customers to learn more about the many benefits of EVs,” says Byron Chubbs, Vice President, Engineering and Energy Supply, Newfoundland Power. “This was the first stop of the Everything EVs Roadshow where everyone here today enjoyed test driving EVs and chatting with EV owners about range, charging and the various vehicle options so they can make informed decisions about making the switch.”

“As more electric vehicles come on the market and as there is increased access to chargers, rebates and other incentives, interest in electric vehicles is increasing in our province,” said Jennifer Williams, President and CEO of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro. “Through events like this, people can experience driving electric for themselves, and learn from other electric vehicle owners as they decide if an electric vehicle is the right choice for their family.”

A joint initiative between Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (Hydro) and Newfoundland Power, takeCHARGE combines the expertise and customer reach of Newfoundland and Labrador’s two electricity utilities. We work together to bring energy efficiency awareness and savings to the residents of this province. To us, that also means helping you use energy wisely through takeCHARGE, from light bulbs to thermostats to electric vehicles. For energy efficiency tips and information on rebate programs, visit TakeChargeNL.ca today!

Newfoundland Power is the primary distributer of electricity on the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a customer base of approximately 273,000 accounts, Newfoundland Power is committed to safety, dedicated to the highest level of customer service and focused on delivering reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost. For more information on Newfoundland Power’s programs, services and community partnerships, please visit newfoundlandpower.com.

Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (Hydro) is the people’s Crown utility – providing safe, cost-effective, reliable electricity that our customers can count on. We have both regulated and unregulated operations across the province with major power generation assets in Churchill Falls, Muskrat Falls, Bay d’Espoir and Holyrood. Our provincial transmission system spans thousands of kilometers, and now connects the island of Newfoundland to Labrador. We power our families, friends, and neighbours in 200+ communities across the province, and approximately 80 per cent of our provincial energy comes from clean hydroelectric generation.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Michele Coughlan
Manager, Public Affairs
Newfoundland Power
t. (709) 737-2821 c. (709) 682-1470
e. mcoughlan@newfoundlandpower.com

Jill Pitcher
Senior Communications Advisor
Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro
t. (709) 737-1219 c. (709) 689-9938
e. jillpitcher@nalcorenergy.com