Two Nelson non-profit organizations will purchase electric vehicles paid for by Columbia Basin Trust grants.
Kootenay Kids Society will replace its fossil fuel vehicle with an electric one after receiving $49,590 from the Trust, which doled out nearly $754,000 to First Nations and non-profits in need of electric charging stations and vehicles.
The Nelson Community Food Centre will also buy an electric vehicle with $41,031.
“We’re pleased to help even more non-profits and First Nations increase the energy efficiency of their buildings and electrify their transportation,” said Ulli Mueller, the Trust’s senior manager, delivery of benefits, in a statement.
“These organizations can continue their vital work toward community well-being, while building their climate resilience.”
The Trust also announced $1.3 million in grants for non-profit groups to make energy retrofits and repairs to community buildings.
Local recipients included:
• Salmo Valley Youth Centre will use $84,750 on heating and ventilation work.
• Appledale Hall receives $79,860 for several renovations including work to the roof and the addition of a wheelchair ramp, LED lighting and a back-up generator.
• Nelson’s West Kootenay Women’s Association will have work done to its gas furnace and insulation with $33,750.
• The Kaslo Visitor Centre will use $15,788 for a heat pump and attic insulation.