Dozens of EV charging stations among projects getting provincial dollars in bid to fight climate change

Manitoba is spending nearly $2 million on initiatives to fight climate change, including dozens of electric vehicle chargers.

From more EV charging stations to numerous community climate projects, the Manitoba government announced plans Tuesday to spend millions to fight climate change.

As part of Earth Day, the Manitoba government highlighted the eco-friendly projects that have a price tag of just over $2 million.

“This Earth Day, our government is pleased to announce new projects supported by the Climate Action Fund across Manitoba. These initiatives will help address the challenges of climate change while building a low-carbon economy,” said Mike Moyes, the Environment and Climate Change Minister, in a news release.

The government allotted funding for 35 projects in total, including $430,000 going toward “enhancing climate resiliency” in Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation and Grand Rapids, as well as the Pembina Valley and Assiniboine West watershed districts.

Five of the projects will get $675,000 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by becoming more energy efficient in homes, businesses and through transportation.

Seventeen communities will receive $15,000 each for climate projects, totalling $255,000.

There will also be 51 new EV charging stations in Winnipeg, Brandon, Portage la Prairie, the RM of Ritchot, Morden, Pinaymootang First Nation, the RM of Brokenhead, the RM of Hanover and Misipawistik Cree Nation. The exact locations will be shared at a later date. This will cost $500,000.

“Together, we are building a Manitoba that’s cleaner, stronger, and more prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Let’s keep using our power to protect our planet,” said Moyes.

All of those projects total $1.86 million. The last $200,000 will go toward the Prairie Climate Centre at the University of Winnipeg.

The centre provides research and communication support to “improve access to climate information, data and services.”

“These resources support robust research projects, innovative educational initiatives, and capacity building for urban, rural, and Indigenous communities, ensuring that Manitoba is well-equipped to face the challenges of a changing climate. This partnership lets us work together on smart climate solutions and build a stronger future for our province,” said Danny Blair, a professor and co-director at the centre, in a news release.

Moyes said a lot of work has been done to fight climate change and that trend needs to continue throughout the province.

“Action lives in the choices that we make, the communities that we build and the projects that we support, and it reminds us that each and every one of us, every community, has the power, real power, to protect our planet.”