Cover Photo Credit: Mason Tozer
On November 10, 2025, the City of Fredericton approved a licensing agreement for NB Power to install two high-speed electric vehicle (EV) chargers at the York Street Carpark. The downtown upgrade will save the city an estimated $250,000–$300,000 in capital municipal spending, plus $10,000–$20,000 annually in operating costs.
Tracey Stephenson, Senior Advisor at NB Power, noted that demand across the eCharge Network has been rapidly increasing, with charging sessions rising from 9,625 in fiscal year 2022 to 62,660 in fiscal year 2025.
NB Power sees the agreement as part of a broader commitment in supporting and facilitating the electric vehicle market so customers have access to faster, more reliable public charging.
Stephenson explained what makes these chargers different:
“Much of the existing fast-charging infrastructure is along provincial highway corridors, which supports intercity travel … The York Street Carpark fills a different but equally important gap. Urban fast charging is essential for residents who cannot charge at home, such as renters or tenants in multi-unit residential buildings. By placing chargers in a downtown location where people can complete errands, access services, or enjoy local businesses, we are enabling practical day-to-day charging for a broader range of drivers.”
Stephenson’s assessment aligns with the City of Fredericton’s Electric Vehicle Strategy, wherein downtown Fredericton is a priority for expanding public charging.
Under the new NB Power License Agreement, NB Power will cover the full installation costs of two fast chargers, including all capital and operational expenses. The agreement outlines how chargers will be installed, who will operate them, and what responsibilities fall to Fredericton and NB Power respectively.
In total, the agreement covers one 50 kW direct-current (DC) fast charger, one 100 kW DC fast charger, and one 7.2 kW Level 2 (240-V) charge station, as well as the relocation of the existing Level 2 (7.2 kW) unit.
When installed, these chargers will position the York Street Carpark as one of Fredericton’s best-equipped public charging sites—offering a stronger mix of DC fast-charging options than locations such as Willie O’Ree Place (two Level 2 units), the Grant Harvey Centre (two Level 2 units), and the Corbett Centre (two DC fast chargers).
Stephenson shared her perspective on the importance of EV accessibility:
“Expanding public charging is one of the most effective ways to support continued EV adoption in New Brunswick. Accessible charging infrastructure reduces range anxiety, supports residents who cannot install home chargers, and creates a more reliable backbone for EV travel within cities and across the province.”
Stephenson concluded by highlighting:
“Public charging infrastructure is also an important enabler of economic activity in local communities, as drivers tend to spend time (and money) in nearby shops and services while charging. Ensuring a robust, equitable, and convenient network is central to NB Power’s role in supporting customers as the transportation sector continues to evolve.”
For more information, visit Fredericton’s Electric Vehicle Strategy page or contact 506-460-2020 or service@fredericton.ca with questions about the Strategy.
