Prince George is already an example when it comes to clean energy and infrastructure and they, as well as other cities, will benefit from a one-time-top up that has doubled the gas transfer for infrastructure projects.
Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, was in Prince George at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) to highlight Budget 2019 priorities that they say will protect Canadian families as well as the environment.
Minister Bennett congratulates @unbc and @CityofPG for their contributions to a cleaner economy with electric vehicles specifically #cityofpg #cdnpoli #bcpoli pic.twitter.com/IXDfOOhAgb
— Jess Fedigan (@jj_fedigan) March 29, 2019
Specifically of note today in Prince George was zero-emission vehicles with one from the City of Prince George at the announcement as well as one from UNBC.
"Since 2015, our government has been taking bold action to ensure that Canadians can benefit from a strong economy and a clean environment. Starting this year, it is no longer free to pollute anywhere in Canada," Bennett says. "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. Budget 2019 continues that work, and will help Canadian communities in the ongoing fight against the devastating effects of climate change and pollution."
When it does come to zero-emission vehicles, the government now has a new incentive.
If a Canadian purchases an electric vehicle valued at $45,000 or less, they'll receive a $5,000 rebate.
The federal government says they will also expand the network of zero-emission vehicle charging and refuelling stations, creating new incentives for people and businesses to purchase low-emission vehicles.
"UNBC is a Canadian leader in sustainability initiatives that inspire research and education opportunities, foster a healthier environment and help UNBC save funding that can be directed to other purposes," UNBC President Dr. Daniel Weeks adds. "We commend the Minister and her government for their investments that support cleaner and healthier communities."
The government says with their investments in public transit and green infrastructure, they're making significant progress in transitioning to a cleaner economy.
"On behalf of Council, I am pleased to welcome Minister Bennett to Prince George, home of the University of Northern BC Canada's Green University," City of Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall says. "Council is very encouraged with the Government of Canada's commitments in the budget to additional funding for infrastructure and clean energy. With our own renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, for example, Prince George is well positioned to provide a leadership role for Canada."
