Electric plug-ins are expected to encourage local shopping by hybrid drivers.

It will be easier to recharge electric vehicles with the introduction of 454 new charging stations in communities throughout B.C., including two in Pitt Meadows and 10 in Maple Ridge.

In Maple Ridge, the 10 new locations are in addition to charging stations at Fire Hall #1 and the Maple Ridge animal shelter.

“These new locations, eight that will be built and managed by the District, and two by Fraser Health at Ridge Meadows Hospital, will make our community a leader in providing infrastructure that facilitates citizens to switch to electric vehicles,” said Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin.

“It’s good for the environment, and with soaring fuel costs, it’s been a solid business decision to control costs,” Daykin added.

Four stations, with two charging connections each, will be built at the operations centre, in front of the municipal hall on Dewdney Trunk Road, on 224th Street in the downtown business core, and in the underground parkade near memorial Peace Park.

“The goal is to have the stations operational by March 2013, so the engineering and design work will move very quickly to meet that timeline. Exact locations and details of how the stations can be used will be available early in 2013,” said Russ Carmichael, director of engineering operations.

“Part of the decision to place charging stations in the Maple Ridge Town Centre, both in the underground parking and on surface streets is to ensure that our business community can attract customers who are making the transition to hybrid and electric vehicles,” said Laura Benson, manager of sustainability and corporate planning.

“It is extremely encouraging to see such widespread interest across the province, both at the local government and business level, in setting up electric vehicle charging stations,” said Terry Lake, Minister of Environment.

“Providing climate-friendly fuel options is a great way for B.C. families to lower their energy costs and build on our government’s leadership in low-carbon transportation. This funding will go a long way towards ensuring people across the province can do that using clean, made-in-B.C. electricity,”said Rich Coleman, Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas.

“This program will help kick-start the electric vehicle infrastructure needed to allow drivers more flexible trip options, and establish electric vehicles as a great option for consumers,” said David Marshall, executive director, Fraser Basin Council.