Sophie Carrigan Gray

Local Journalism Initiative

Environmentally conscious road trippers to the South Okanagan now have two chances to renew their automobile energy. Two new electric vehicle charging stations were officially opened Monday, for visitors to fill up on fuel for wine country adventures and beyond.

The Osoyoos Indian Band teamed up with FortisBC to install the charging ports at two locations on their territory. One station is located near the Senkulmen Enterprise Park off Highway 97 in Oliver, while the other is along Highway 3 in Osoyoos, near the Spirit Ridge Resort.

Both stations were unveiled on Monday, July 27, sporting artwork designed by the Osoyoos Indian Band Youth Council. The murals on the stations represent Chief Salmon, a major figure in Syilx/Okanagan culture.

“For us, this unique artwork will serve as a permanent reminder of the value of partnership in driving forward our shared goal of a cleaner, energy future,” said vice president of market development and external relation for FortisBC, Doug Stout.

The two stations are part of 12 FortisBC built over the last year. The charging stations are partially funded by National Resources Canada, the B.C. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources with the aim of developing a network of charging stations for electric vehicles along the national highway system.

The two stations in Oliver and Osoyoos were built through a collaborative effort between FortisBC, the province, Encora Properties and the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Osoyoos Indian Band Chief, Clarence Louie, believes the charging stations fit with the band’s economic models and future business plans.

“Hosting these two stations helps make our region more accessible for electric vehicle drivers and reflects our forward thinking approach to economic development,” he said. “Through this positive partnership with FortisBC, we’re supporting clean transportation in our area and sustainable business growth. We’re pleased to contribute to this initiative.”

They mark the first charging stations on a First Nation in the province.