The province of Ontario has released a new Climate Change Action Plan that calls for the investment of up to $8.3 billion in projects to fight climate change.

Considering that more than a third of Ontario’s greenhouse gas pollution is caused by the transportation sector, and that much of the province’s electricity comes from renewable sources, the action plan includes a goal of making five per cent of passenger vehicle sales zero-emission by 2020.

Specific measures include a cash incentive of up to $14,000 (!) for the purchase or lease of an EV, and up to $1,000 for the installation of a Level 2 home charging station. EVs will wear a special green license plate that allows them to use high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes. EV owners will also be eligible to charge for free under Ontario’s overnight charging program between 2017 and 2020.

The Climate Change Action Plan also includes an additional $80 million of investment in workplace and multi-residential charging, as well as more public highway and downtown DC fast chargers.

By 2018, new homes in Ontario will be required to include power outlets in their garages for vehicle charging.

Source: Province of Ontario