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The federal government has announced $600,000 for 12 new electric fast-charging stations in B.C.

MP Stephen Fuhr made the announcement on Monday morning at Kelowna International Airport.

“Electric vehicles are an important part of Canada’s clean energy future, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that encourage widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles,” Fuhr said.

#Kelowna's airport, Rutland Centennial Park, Kelowna Museum, Beaverdell, Osoyoos and Cawston are some of the places getting new electric vehicle fast charging stations. pic.twitter.com/X6Iz9U8kDT — Jules Knox (@Jules_Knox) June 24, 2019

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The airport houses two of the 12 fast-charging stations.

“Airports have a large role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable transportation options,” airport director Sam Samaddar said.

“Installing electric vehicle chargers will ensure the airport is accessible for the growing number of electric vehicle drivers in the Okanagan while working towards protecting the natural environment that makes the region such a great place to live.”

It takes a fast-charging station about half an hour to charge a compact electric vehicle, compared to three or four hours for a level two station. It costs $9 to charge a car for half an hour under B.C.'s approved rate. pic.twitter.com/D27gUy1Kxx — Jules Knox (@Jules_Knox) June 24, 2019



1:59 Extended interview about new electric vehicle fast-charging stations Extended interview about new electric vehicle fast-charging stations WATCH BELOW: Doug Stout of FortisBC gives more information about the electric vehicle fast-charging stations.

The funding is from Natural Resources Canada’s electric vehicle initiative, which aims to establish a coast-to-coast network of fast-chargers along the national highway system.

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The province is also contributing $300,000 towards the fast chargers.

According to the federal government, transportation accounts for a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions, almost half of which comes from cars and light trucks.