Are Prince George roads set to become more green?

The Federal Government is making an effort to better the lives of Canadians, as well as improving the environment.

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, was at the University of Northern British Columbia to highlight Budget 2019.

$180 billion is being invested by the Government over 12 years to build infrastructure in communities across the country.

“Starting this year, it is no longer free to pollute anywhere in Canada,” Bennett said. “Our clean growth and climate action plan is expected to result in the biggest drop in carbon pollution in the history of Canada’s emissions reporting — while creating more good, well-paying jobs in the clean economy and making life more affordable for Canadians.”

“We don’t want to be on the wron side of history,” Minister Carolyn Bennett @UNBC @ReporterCole pic.twitter.com/df8J8muxqG

— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) March 29, 2019

Part of the focus of the government is to make it easier for Canadians to afford a zero-emissions vehicle.

“Council is very encouraged with the Government of Canada’s commitments in the budget to additional funding for infrastructure and clean energy,” Mayor Lynn Hall said in a news release. “With our own renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, for example, Prince George is well positioned to provide a leadership role in Canada.”

Suzanne Goldberg, Director of Public Policy for ChargePoint, was on hand for the event reflecting that push.

ChargePoint operates an electric vehicle charging network, as well as manufacturing the charging stations and equipment used within it.

The City of Prince George has a dozen public charging stations for electric vehicles, as well as a number of charging stations being used privately by businesses and residents.

Goldberg discussed how electric vehicles are becoming more affordable, adding that it’s only a matter of time before they become more viable here in Northern BC.

“Most people aren’t driving long distances for their daily commutes. I know in some northern communities, they might drive a hundred kilometres a day or more,” Goldberg said, adding that the power range for electric vehicles is improving.

“You don’t necessarily have to be as economical with your heat because your vehicle has a significant range.”

With the improvement of the batteries used by electric vehicles, it’s predicted to bring a point in which electric vehicles are on par in terms of cost with conventional vehicles.

“Some are predicting that by 2025 is the tipping point,” Goldberg said.