Promoted and administered by the non-profit Fraser Basin Council, the Community Charging Infrastructure Fund will cover installations at municipalities, regional governments, First Nations and businesses across the state.

The network will include three Level 3 DC Fast Charging Stations within months, with a further 27 planned further in the future.

Speaking at the launch yesterday, Lake commented: ‘The growing need for compatible infrastructure is clear. Since its launch in December last year, B.C.'s incentive program has resulted in one CEV being sold every 30 hours in this province. That's 104 British Columbians who are embracing new, green technology that not only reduces GHG emissions, but helps our clean-tech sector.’

British Columbia is Canada’s biggest market for the Nissan LEAF, with 22% of the country’s vehicles sold there. Last November, Lake announced $17m (£10.77m) funding for clean energy vehicles, covering infrastructure, home charging stations and the BC SCRAP-IT Society. Owners can claim $5,000 (£3,170) off the pre-tax price of a qualifying electric, hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle.