Ivy charging station set up at a Canadian Tire store in Fort Frances. Image: Randy Thoms

The expansion of infrastructure for electric vehicles continues in Ontario.

There are now over 17 hundred charging stations.

Environment Minister Todd Smith says investments from the province are helping expand EV ownership.

“We’re achieving more choice, more convenience, and making EV ownership an even more realistic option for families. We’re giving Ontario’s drivers the freedom and confidence to know that they can be fully charged for any destination,” says Smith.

Smith’s comments come as 20 new fast chargers come online in southern Ontario.

An ultra-low electricity rate was also established to ease the cost of recharging at home.

It all comes as the sale of EVs takes off.

The province says there are more than 130,00 registered EVs and expects the number to reach one million by 2030.

“Electric vehicles are the way of the future,” says Smith.

There are plans for more charging stations in northwestern Ontario.

IVY Charging Network identifies several stations to be set up shortly.

General Manager Michael Kitchen says the expansion is being aided by provincial and federal funding and a partnership with Canadian Tire.

“Since launching just a few short years ago, Ivy has connected the province from north to south and east to west for EV drivers with 150 fast chargers across Ontario to help end range anxiety and unlock endless travel possibilities, says Kitchen.