In September of 2020, the Town of Innisfail contributed $10,000 towards an electric vehicle (EV) charging station housed at the new EQUS head office located in Innisfail.
Town Council had the opportunity to tour the new facility as part of a flag-raising event, held on September 30, 2020, celebrating the opening of the building. During this visit, members of Town Council were able to see the new EV charging station first hand.
The power for the charging station is supplied through alternate energy sources, including solar, battery and a CHP (a combined heat and power unit). EQUS reports that since July 24 – the date the charging station became operational – over 47 vehicles have stopped to use the equipment. In total, over 1,383 kWh have been provided free of charge to electric vehicle owners.
EQUS is able to monitor user’s experiences through plugshare.com, an independent website featuring locations to charge electric vehicles. According to some of the stories shared on the site, many visitors appreciate that Innisfail offers a free charging station. They also applaud the fact that the power for the charging station is generated through green or alternative processes.
One benefit to the community has been an increase in the number of travellers stopping in town. Many of these visitors use other local amenities while waiting for their vehicles to charge. This gives Innisfail a unique opportunity to showcase our businesses to people who may not otherwise stop here.
As more electric vehicles are offered by auto makers, charging stations like the one located at the EQUS headquarters are expected to see increased use in the upcoming years and decades. By adding this amenity to the community, the Town and EQUS have taken a step towards ensuring Innisfail is a stop for EV owners both now and in the future.
Pictured is Town of Innisfail Mayor JIm Romane and EQUS Board Chair Glen Fox. Both attended the flag-raising ceremony at the new EQUS building in Innisfail and shared this opportunity to view the new electric vehicle charging station located on site.
