Together, Canadians are moving towards the objective of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
This achievement will be largely dependent on the shift to using only electric vehicles nationwide.
- Canada has set a goal for vehicle sales to be 100% electric by 2035
This inspiring goal, understandably, also comes with some questions. Is it attainable? Will Canadians break the power grid? We’ve done a little digging—here’s what experts say would be necessary for Canada to achieve a viable electric vehicle grid.
Upgrades and improvements
To meet the demands of a fully electric vehicle grid, several things will need upgrades, improvements, and commitments:
- An expanded electric grid 2-3 times the current size with more battery storage and flexibility to meet fluctuation in demand
- $400 billion in funds to expand and replace facilities and infrastructure
- Commitment and effort at every level federal, provincial and territorial, municipal, organizational, and individual
- Innovative ways to input energy into the grid such as cars that can add power to the grid during peak use
Plus, as more and more systems make the switch from fossil fuels to electricity (household heating systems, for example), these systems must be as efficient as possible.
- A viable electric vehicle grid is partially contingent on the efficiency of other electric systems—which will likely draw power from the same sources
Is it possible?
The general consensus is…
Yes! There is plenty of time—more than 26 years—to make the needed upgrades.
But we won’t sugar-coat it, Canadians can expect a lot of changes in the coming years in order to achieve this goal. Steady progress and adaptability over time will be the key to achieving a viable electric vehicle grid
The outcome
If all goes according to plan Canada could achieve the goal of net-zero fossil fuel emissions by 2050, with a fully electric vehicle line-up as a major milestone.
- Canada will pave the way to a cleaner future and perhaps even set an example for the world.
Dig deeper: Learn more about going fully electric and what it means for Canada