Bracebridge paving the way for EV's in their fleet

Installing charging stations for the town could cost over half a million dollars

Bracebridge General Committee endorsed a feasibility study for municipal electric vehicles, in the June 3, 2025, meeting.

According to the staff report, last December Council agreed to recommendations to reduce GHG emissions, as a part of a collective plan with area municipalities endorsing the Corporate GHG Inventory and Regional Climate Change Mitigation Plan (RCCMP) in principle.

It adds, “The RCCMP outlines targets and action items aimed at achieving a 45% GHG emissions by 2030 and reaching net-zero by 2050.”

The RCCMP, which was developed by Tatham Engineering, will be used in the Town’s future budgets and business plans to guide climate change mitigation efforts.

The Town also retained Tatham to do an Electric Vehicle (EV) Feasibility Study that resulted in recommendations for infrastructure for charging stations and support for transitioning the municipality’s fleet to EVs.

The study that was completed last April focused on electrical load assessment, charger strategy and installation, a fleet transition plan, and GHG reduction.

It confirmed that the Town office can support the installation of charging stations without major upgrades at a cost starting at $544,189, depending on the option they choose.

Next steps include staff creating the design and layout of the charging stations for Town fleet which will involve installation that is phased in over multiple years.

The report continues, “Future employee and visitor electric vehicle chargers could be included should the need exist.”

Councillor, Debbie Vernon, said “I’m delighted to see it on the agenda, and am grateful it’s being considered.”

Councillor, Andrew Struthers, inquired about whether the plan will expand to facilities such as the Town’s Fire Department.

Staff advised that they have had discussions with the department and “larger vehicles isn’t currently available.” The added that they will consider it once they become available.