Goal: By 2030, 50 per cent of all vehicle kilometres travelled are by zero-emission vehicles.
Switching to an Electric Vehicle (EV) is one of the most impactful ways to reduce Whistler’s emissions. Beyond reducing GHG emissions, EVs also lower air and noise pollution, reduce fuel costs, and contribute to healthier, quieter communities. Currently, personal vehicle transportation accounts for over half of Whistler’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Big Move 2 supports residents, businesses, and the community in choosing cleaner, smarter ways to drive, from personal EVs to zero-emissions buses and commercial fleets.
What we’re doing
- Expand the public EV charging network.
- Incentivize homeowners and multi-unit buildings to install chargers by topping up provincial incentives and adopting EV-ready building standards.
- Support the shift to EVs through awareness and outreach programs.
- Gradually increase parking costs to discourage the use of single-occupancy vehicles.
- Electrify private and public fleets.
- Host outreach events with fleet operators.
- Work with BC Transit to move to zero-emission buses.
- Collaborating with resort partners to incentivize carpooling.
Small actions you can take
- Switch to an electric vehicle, taking advantage of rebate programs, when available: Passenger EV Rebates – Go Electric BC.
- Drive a smaller car. Trucks and larger SUVs can use twice as much fuel compared to compact cars (Natural Resources Canada’s Fuel Consumption Guide).
- Carpool with friends, neighbours, or coworkers when you can. Learn more about Whistler’s carpool parking pass and Vail’s carpool parking reservation system.
- Save money and emissions with fuel-efficient driving techniques.
Did you know?
- British Columbia has the highest electric vehicle adoption rates in North America, projected to grow to 26 per cent of new vehicle sales by 2026.
- EV batteries can be recycled.
- Meeting 2030 targets will require nearly all new light-duty vehicles to be zero emissions, as well as high-use vehicles such as taxis and business fleets.
- Stratas in B.C. with five or more lots are required to get an Electrical Planning Report to assess electrical capacity and plan for future demands, including electrical vehicle charging. In Whistler, stratas must complete this by December 31, 2028.
RMOW divisions and key partners
Lead: Climate and Environment
Support: Transportation Planning, Planning, Building Department, Infrastructure Services
Partnerships: Climate Action and Environment Committee, BC Hydro, Whistler Blackcomb, Municipalities within the Sea to Sky Corridor, Whistler Housing Authority, taxi/transportation suppliers