Another stop on Canada's Electric Highway™ is at Siksika First Nation in Alberta. These are the first EV fast chargers on a First Nation in Canada. Plus, these chargers complete the Alberta section of Canada's Electric Highway.
At the opening in Siksika, we heard from several individuals connected to this project. First, Shane Breaker – General Manager, SRDL Operations, Siksika First Nation - welcomed everyone. Shane is looking forward to great things from this partnership between Siksika First Nation and Suncor, including serving more customers as they move to EVs. Then Pat Pambianco – Petro-Canada – discussed the role these chargers play as customers look for low carbon solutions for their transportation needs. And finally Pat Lazenby – Petro-Canada – discussed the features of the chargers. There is a Level 3 DC fast charger (200KW) with universal connectors on site. And there is also a Level 2 charger which meets some electric vehicles' needs today.
View the opening ceremony and the full remarks:
Following the opening, I had a chance to chat with Corey White, Manager - Siksika Petro-Canada; we talked about the chargers and his customers:
Have you received any feedback from the announcement of a coast-to-coast network?
The feedback so far has been quite positive! There has been a lot of hype about the new chargers and questions about how it operates and such. Soon EV owners will be able to travel Canada coast to coast and our store is excited to welcome a new wave of visitors to Siksika Nation!
Why do you think having EV chargers is important to your customer?
I believe it is important that we continue to provide quality services to all consumers including those who are eco-friendly and those considering purchasing Electric Vehicles in the future. Having the only Fast EV Charger in the area we are able to provide even more to consumers now and in the future. As the first to have an EV Fast Charger on a First-Nation in Canada, our chargers signify the relationship our peoples have with the environment and sustainability efforts.
What are your initial thoughts on the charger?
The chargers are a great addition to our location, the unit itself is unique in design and the large touch screen is a nice touch to the charger. Features such as text notification updates better improve our customers’ experience.
Thanks to everyone who came out to the inauguration of the Siksika First Nation site! We’ll keep you up to date as we open more sites along Canada’s Electric Highway!
~ Braden H
