The Canadian province of Ontario has enacted a new rule which will see owners of regular fossil fuel-powered combustion engine vehicles fined $CA125 ($AU137) for parking in EV charging spots, making it easier for EV drivers to find a charging spot.
The legislation was signed into law last week by Whitby MPP Lorne Coe, in partnership with Guelph MPP and Green leader, Mike Schreiner – making it the first piece of Green Party legislation to be passed.
The modification to the Highway Traffic Act will enact a $CA125 ($AU137) fine for blocking an electric vehicle charging station.
“With this legislation, the Green Party is making its mark on Ontario politics, planting a small seed for the clean and caring economy,” said Mike Schreiner, the MPP for Guelph.
“This is common sense legislation that makes life easier for EV drivers and removes one of the barriers standing in the way of EV adoption.”
The issue is “one of the biggest complaints of EV drivers” according to the Green Party for Ontario, and addressing the issue was described by Schreiner as “a small, albeit substantive, difference for EVs, which are essential to combating the climate crisis.”
The modification to the Highway Traffic Act will go into effect immediately.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.