Trent University Durham GTA has taken the lead in a regional effort to introduce climate-friendly infrastructure, installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station on campus, the first of many coming to the Region, funded by Canada’s Ministry of Natural Resources.

“The new EV charging station is an important step toward a green future, and it is a timely reflection of Trent’s and the region’s commitment to sustainable solutions,” said Dr. Scott Henderson, dean and head of Trent University Durham GTA. “Students in our Communications program recently worked on an EV strategy with the Town of Clarington, and more of our faculty, staff and students are making the smart choice of using elective vehicles. I am impressed by the commitment of our leaders at all levels of government to make sure that the growth of Durham is smart, green, and forward-looking.”

Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program provided more than $200,000 in funding to a partnership between Clarington, Scugog, Whitby and Trent Durham to install a total of 42 Charge Point Level 2 EV chargers (with two charging heads) across the Region of Durham.

“As we continue the Region’s push to a clean energy economy, the importance of this additional federal funding and the accompanying infrastructure improvements cannot be overstated. We’re very grateful for our local partners and the Ministry of Natural Resources for their hard work and tireless dedication to battling climate change,” said John Henry, regional chair and chief executive officer of Durham Region.

Installation of the charging station at Trent Durham—on the east side of Building A—was completed in August 2021. It is now the third charging stations available on Trent University campuses, with two EV charging stations located on the Symons Campus in Peterborough, one on each bank of campus.

To-date is the most well-used of the Trent stations, showcasing that this investment is making it easier for not only residents, but also students and commuters to the region to choose sustainable methods of travel.

Other Level 2 EV charging stations coming to the Region as part of this collaboration will be installed at fire halls, operations centres, town halls, a water pollution control plant, a works maintenance depot, an animal control centre, library, youth centre, marina, and recreation arena.

Plugged into a greener future

Trent Durham’s collaboration with regional partners is just one piece of the larger effort by Trent University to participate in and lead climate action, which includes investments in green infrastructure to improve energy efficiency on campus.

In addition to the EV charging stations, Trent has also invested in a zero-carbon Forensic Crime Scene Facility, a new on-campus battery energy storage system, and green parking spaces. Trent’s strategy for investments in climate action also extends well beyond infrastructure, into academia, research, finance and more.

Learn more about electric vehicle charging stations at Trent University