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E-Mobility Technical Study (Part 2)

Climate Resilient Community Low Emissions Transportation and Mobility City Council consideration on Sep 9, 2024

Background

Transportation is responsible for a significant share of Nanaimo’s emissions - so lowering barriers to electric transportation can play a key role in lowering our emissions. This study outlines barriers to the uptake of EVs and e-bikes in Nanaimo. Nearly all of the barriers assessed were found to be either “critical” or “moderate” barriers - including factors such as affordability, charging station availability, and safe bike routes. Low-income populations surveyed agreed that electric bikes were a priority. Council voted in favour of staff finding ways to mitigate the “critical” barriers - solutions such as budgeting for increasing safe bike lane networks and improved charging infrastructure.

Item Description

That Council direct Staff to identify key actions to address all critical barriers identified in the E-Mobility Landscape and Options for Nanaimo Technical Report and report back to Council for consideration, and as a first step:

a) prepare a business case for consideration for the 2026-2030 Financial Plan to provide long-term, sustainable resources to improve active transportation networks for Council’s consideration; and,

b) leverage external funding and partnerships to expand and improve electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the role of a facilitator, partner, and/or landowner.

Votes cast ‘In Favour’ are labeled as 'Climate-Positive' for the climate.