Ontario wants to install about 500 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along highways and at workplaces, condos and public spaces starting in 2017.

More than 250 locations will benefit from the province’s $20 million investment, funneled from the $325-million Green Investment Fund announced last year. The government will work with 27 public and private sector partners to create the urban EV networks.

Transportation accounts for the highest level of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the province and its only growing worse as urban regions expand.

“Successfully fighting climate change requires fundamental shifts in how we move, live and work,” said Glen Murray, minister of the environment and climate change. “These partnerships demonstrate a collective need for transformation and the determination to make it happen.”

Currently, there are 6400 electric vehicles on the road in Ontario, with more expected on the way.

“By investing in charging infrastructure that is fast, reliable and affordable we will encourage more Ontarians to purchase electric vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas pollution and keeping our air clean,” said Steven Del Duca, minister of transportation.

The province is targeting a GHG reduction of 80 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050. Switching over to low- and zero-emissions vehicles would help achieve this feat.