December 10, 2012 - Electric vehicle (EV) drivers can charge their vehicles while they shop at Stone Road Mall thanks to Guelph Hydro Inc. The utility has installed an EV charging station (managed by Primaris) at the mall as a pilot program.
"Recognizing that transportation accounts for almost one third of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions, our goal in installing this charging station is to encourage the use of electric vehicles," said Barry Chuddy, CEO, Guelph Hydro Inc. "Stone Road Mall is a perfect location for a charging station because drivers can shop while their vehicle is charging."
The Level II charging station—supplied by Sun Country Highway—has one 240V connection and two 120V connections. It serves two parking spots and is located in Stone Road Mall's south parking lot between Sears and Old Navy, adjacent to Stone Road. The charging station is available for use free of charge for the duration of the pilot. Charge time will vary depending on how much charge is required. It can be used by any EV, as well as electric scooters.
Sun Country Highway says it has helped install almost 100 electric car charging stations along the TransCanada Highway to enable EV owners to drive from coast to coast. The charging station at Stone Road Mall is now one of the charging points on Canada's electric highway.
The charging station is part of the second phase of Guelph Hydro's research study into EV use in Guelph. Data collected from the charging unit will be analyzed, including how long it takes to charge a vehicle and when and how often people are using it.
Guelph Hydro has plans to install two more units in Guelph; one downtown and one in the north end. In fact, the utility invites suggestions from the community on where to install them. To share your ideas, email [email protected] This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Guelph Hydro is also seeking EV owners in Guelph or Rockwood who would like to participate in a university research study. For more information or to volunteer, email [email protected]
