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New Request for Proposals and Tools to Deploy Thousands More EV Chargers Across Canada

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OTTAWA, ON, July 2, 2024 /CNW/ – From coast to coast to coast, Canadians are saving thousands of dollars a year on gas by rapidly making the switch to electric vehicles, with over 320,000 new electric vehicles registered in 2023 alone. The Government of Canada is taking action to make it more affordable for Canadians to purchase, charge and drive electric vehicles (EVs) across the country while driving toward a net-zero future, including by making it easier to access public EV charging through historic direct investments, research and partnerships with the private sector and other levels of government.

Funding and Request for Proposals

To advance these efforts, today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, launched a new request for proposals (RFP) under the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP). The RFP will support the deployment of EV chargers, including fast chargers, in public places across Canada such as highways and public lots. The RFP will also support the deployment of chargers at private locations, including multi-unit residential buildings, workplaces and where on-road vehicle fleets are serviced. Applications will be accepted until September 19, 2024.

This funding will deploy thousands of new chargers across Canada, building on the Government of Canada’s progress to deploy 84,500 EV chargers across Canada, including through ZEVIP, the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB)’s Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure Initiative, and incentive credits under both the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard and the Clean Fuel Regulations

In addition to investments by provinces, territories, municipalities and the private sector, the federal government has supported approximately 20% of the nearly 30,000 public chargers that are operating in Canada. As a result, there were 70 percent more EV chargers in Canada in 2023 than in 2022, with thousands more on the way each year.

Supporting Deployment Through Tools and Research

Today, Natural Resources Canada released  Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure for Canada: Updated forecasts of vehicle charging needs, grid impacts and cost for all vehicle segments (2024 EV Charging Needs Report).The independently produced report assesses the country’s charging landscape, guides decision-making and informs investment needs, including by provinces, territories, municipal governments and the private sector.

The 2024 EV Charging Needs Report provides a detailed regional analysis of public and private charging needs for both light-duty vehicles and medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, together with related grid readiness requirements and investments. The report highlights that a coordinated effort is needed from all levels of government, industry, utilities and other private-sector stakeholders to continue to accelerate deployment.

Additionally, to help investors, stakeholders, provinces, territories and communities determine the most suitable locations for chargers, the Government of Canada has developed the National Public EV Charging Planning Map.

These evidence-based tools will support the deployment of chargers in the areas with the greatest public charging need, including along routes, highways and communities.

Canadians are making the switch to electric vehicles, reducing their energy costs while driving down emissions. The Government of Canada will continue to support them in accelerating toward a prosperous, net-zero future, including by ensuring all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada are zero-emission by 2035; by supporting the deployment of public charging stations across the country; and by building out a Canadian-made electric vehicle supply chain that creates sustainable, good-paying jobs for Canadian workers.

Quotes

“Canadians are making the switch to EVs because it’s a great way to save money while ensuring clean air in our communities and fighting climate change. We’re making electric vehicles more affordable and charging more available where Canadians live, work, travel and play. Today, we launched another funding request for proposals via the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program, which will help deploy thousands more chargers across Canada. This will put more Canadians in the driver’s seat on the road to a prosperous net-zero future.”

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“Hundreds of thousands of Canadians are making the switch to an EV every year. They expect access to convenient, affordable and reliable charging — including in public spaces. Today’s call for proposals does that by investing in thousands more chargers and equipping the private sector and governments with the tools they need to deploy more chargers, faster.”

Julie Dabrusin
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and
to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Quick Facts

The federal government’s investment in EV charging infrastructure is supporting Canadians by reducing barriers to EV adoption while spurring investment and growth across Canada’s EV supply chain, including through Transport Canada’s Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles Program (iZEV), which makes zero-emission vehicles more affordable for Canadians and has received another $1.7 billion in Budget 2022; and,Budget 2024 announces the government’s intention to introduce a new 10-percent Electric Vehicle Supply Chain investment tax credit on the cost of buildings used in key segments of the electric vehicle supply chain for businesses that invest in Canada across three supply chain segments:electric vehicle assembly;electric vehicle battery production; and,cathode active material production.The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) has made significant strides in the automotive and battery sector in recent years. Since 2017, the Fund has announced over $5.5 billion in funding toward the automotive and battery sector, of which approximately $5.3 billion has been directly in support of the EV transition.These investments include projects focused on producing battery materials, battery components and packs and on manufacturing EVs and developing vehicle components specific to low-carbon transportation (e.g., next-generation tires).Investing $3.8 billion in the mining, processing and recycling of critical minerals,Since 2016, the Government of Canada has allocated over $1.2 billion in funding to support the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations across the country.Since 2019, a total of over 40,000 EV chargers (Level 2 and Level 3) have been supported by ZEVIP.The 2024 EV Charging Needs Report provides an update to a 2022 NRCan-commissioned study, Updated Projections of Canada’s Public Charging Infrastructure Needs, based on changing trends in the EV market, charger utilization and assessment methodologies.As noted in the report, “The results are intended to support the Government of Canada — as well as provincial and municipal governments, utilities and other stakeholders — in planning to ensure that sufficient charging infrastructure will be deployed to support Canada’s targets”As of May 2024, NRCan’s infrastructure programs and the Canadian Infrastructure Bank’s Charging and Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure Initiative had already committed funds for the installation of over 46,000 chargers across the country, with more than 14,000 of these federally funded chargers already in operation.EV charger deployment has seen significant growth: an average of 45 percent annually since 2016 and a jump to 72-percent growth between 2022 and 2023.With Budget 2023, the Government of Canada has now committed more than $40 billion to support Canada’s clean electricity sector, including related grid updates for EV charging infrastructure.This significant investment is building an EV charging network for Canadians, and we continue to work with all levels of government, industry, utilities and other private sector stakeholders to further accelerate deployment.

Related Information

Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure ProgramThe Canadian Infrastructure Bank (CIB) Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure Initiative (CHRII)2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong EconomyElectric Charging and Alternative Fuelling Stations LocatorZero-emission vehicles: IncentivesBuilding a green economy: Government of Canada to require 100% of car and passenger truck sales be zero-emission by 2035 in Canada

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SOURCE Natural Resources Canada

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Brazos Residential Announces Promotion of Cliff Davis to Junior Partner

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DALLAS, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Brazos Residential is pleased to announce the promotion of Cliff Davis to Junior Partner, recognizing his significant contributions to the firm’s growth and investment platform since joining the company in 2022.

Davis joined Brazos Residential as an Investment Professional and has since assumed an increasingly influential role across the firm’s acquisitions, capital markets, investor relations, and asset management functions. Throughout his tenure, he has been directly involved in evaluating and executing investment opportunities, arranging debt and equity financing, and supporting strategic initiatives across the company’s expanding multifamily portfolio.

His promotion reflects both the impact he has made within the organization and the confidence the firm places in his long-term leadership and continued contributions to the business.

“Cliff has become an integral part of our organization and someone we rely on across many facets of the business,” said James Roberts, President and Co-Founder of Brazos Residential. “As our first hire, Cliff’s work ethic, commitment to excellence, and dedication to our mission embody what Brazos Residential stands for. His contributions have helped shape our growth, and this promotion is well deserved.”

“Cliff approaches the business with a high level of professionalism and discipline,” said Will Hancock, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Brazos Residential. “He has earned the trust of our team, partners, and investors through consistent execution and sound judgment. We are excited to welcome him into this leadership role and look forward to his continued impact on the future of the company.”

Prior to joining Brazos Residential, Davis worked at Berkadia Commercial Mortgage, where he was involved in underwriting, originations, and the execution of multifamily financing transactions, while also assisting in the sourcing and evaluation of investment opportunities. Earlier in his career, he served as a Credit Analyst at Benchmark Bank.

Davis earned a degree in Economics from The University of Texas at Austin and currently resides in Dallas, Texas.

The promotion underscores Brazos Residential’s continued commitment to developing talent from within and building an institutional-quality platform positioned for sustained long-term growth. As the company continues to expand its footprint across the Sun Belt, leadership development remains a core component of its strategy for creating value for investors, residents, and partners.

About Brazos Residential

Brazos Residential is a vertically integrated multifamily investment and property management platform headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Founded in 2022 without institutional backing, the firm has grown into a fully integrated real estate operating platform encompassing investment management, property management through Brazos Residential Management, and construction management through Brazos Construction Management.

The company currently manages over $800 million in assets under management across more than 7,000 apartment units and employs more than 200 professionals. Brazos focuses on workforce and Class B/C multifamily housing in high-growth Sun Belt markets, with a strategic emphasis on acquiring attainable housing located near major employment centers. Through its vertically integrated operating model, Brazos seeks to preserve and improve naturally occurring affordable housing while delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns for institutional and private capital partners.

Media Contact: marketing@brazosres.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brazos-residential-announces-promotion-of-cliff-davis-to-junior-partner-302804953.html

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Monport Mega S Redefines What a Desktop Laser Engraver Can Do for Small Businesses

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The upgraded Monport Mega S desktop laser engraver combines speed, precision, and automation to help businesses scale production, improve output quality, and reduce workflow complexity.

NEW YORK, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As small businesses and independent makers continue to expand into custom products, signage, and light manufacturing, the need for reliable and efficient laser systems has grown significantly. While entry-level machines have made laser engraving more accessible, many operators quickly outgrow basic systems when production demands increase.

The Monport Mega S desktop laser engraver is designed to bridge that gap, offering a more production-ready solution that brings industrial-style capabilities into a compact desktop format. Built for speed, consistency, and usability, the upgraded system reflects how desktop laser technology is evolving beyond hobby use into serious business production tools.

Rather than focusing solely on specifications, the Monport Mega S emphasizes workflow efficiency—helping users move from design to finished product with fewer manual steps and greater consistency.

Desktop Laser Power Designed for Real Business Use

For many growing businesses, the challenge is not learning how to engrave, but scaling production without sacrificing quality. The Monport Mega S desktop laser machine addresses this by combining high-speed performance with automation features that simplify daily operation.

With engraving speeds reaching up to 600 mm/s and precision down to 0.03 mm, the system is designed to handle both detailed engraving and efficient cutting tasks across materials such as wood, acrylic, leather, and coated surfaces. This balance of speed and accuracy allows users to take on both custom one-off orders and higher-volume production runs.

Unlike traditional entry-level systems, the Mega S desktop laser engraver is built with production continuity in mind, giving users the ability to maintain output consistency across larger batches.

Built for Faster Workflow and Reduced Manual Setup

One of the most time-consuming aspects of laser production is setup and preparation. Material alignment, focus adjustments, and repeated calibration can slow down workflow significantly, especially in small workshop environments.

The Monport Mega S desktop CO2 laser engraver reduces these friction points through integrated automation features designed for practical day-to-day use.

Key workflow advantages include:

Built-in autofocus system that adjusts based on material thicknessSmart Batch Fill support for efficient multi-item processingSimplified optical alignment process for quicker setupEnhanced airflow system for improved cutting quality and cleaner edgesEfficient smoke extraction for a safer working environmentSupport for automated feeding workflows for repetitive production tasks

These features allow users to spend less time preparing machines and more time producing finished goods, which is especially important for businesses handling frequent or recurring orders.

Conveyor Belt Integration Expands Production Capability

A key upgrade that sets the Mega S apart from many standard desktop laser systems is its optional conveyor belt system. This feature enables continuous material feeding, allowing businesses to process longer materials or run uninterrupted production workflows.

For businesses producing signage, engraved panels, or repetitive product runs, the conveyor system helps reduce downtime between jobs and supports a more assembly-line style production approach. Instead of manually repositioning materials, users can maintain consistent output across extended production cycles.

This type of capability is typically associated with larger industrial systems, making it a notable advancement in the desktop laser engraver category.

Supporting Both Creative and Commercial Applications

While the Monport Mega S is designed with business scalability in mind, it remains versatile enough to support a wide range of applications. This flexibility is one of the reasons it has become relevant for both new entrepreneurs and expanding production shops.

Common applications include:

Personalized gifts and custom merchandiseAcrylic signage and branding materialsWood engraving and decorative productsLeather accessories and fashion itemsSmall-batch manufacturing and prototyping

The machine’s combination of precision engraving and cutting capability allows users to expand product offerings without needing multiple machines for different tasks.

Improved Safety and Workspace Efficiency

In addition to performance improvements, the Monport Mega S also focuses on creating a more stable and safer working environment. Its Class 1 safety design makes it suitable for both home-based workshops and small business environments where space and safety compliance are important considerations.

The enhanced airflow and smoke extraction system further improves usability by maintaining a cleaner workspace during extended production sessions. This becomes especially valuable for businesses operating daily production schedules or working with materials that generate more residue.

A Step Forward for Desktop Laser Manufacturing

The evolution of desktop laser systems has increasingly blurred the line between entry-level hobby tools and production-ready equipment. The Monport Mega S desktop laser engraver reflects this shift by offering a system that is not only capable of detailed creative work but also structured for repeatable, scalable business output.

Rather than requiring users to upgrade to full industrial machinery, the Mega S provides many of the workflow advantages needed for growth—automation, batch processing, and optional continuous feeding—within a compact desktop format.

For small businesses, makers, and growing production shops, this means fewer operational bottlenecks and more opportunity to focus on output and customer demand.

Monport is currently offering a limited-time promotion for the Mega S Powerful Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver, which includes:

Instant $300 discountFree air assist systemFree 2 black laser marking sprays

The promotion is designed to help new and growing businesses lower initial setup costs while gaining access to upgraded production tools that improve efficiency and output quality.

To learn more about the Monport Mega S desktop laser engraver, visit Monport Laser official website.

Media Contact:
Monport Laser
Email: official@monportlaser.com 
Website: www.monportlaser.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/monport-mega-s-redefines-what-a-desktop-laser-engraver-can-do-for-small-businesses-302804972.html

SOURCE Monport

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Monport Highlights How Laser Technology Helps Businesses Increase Productivity and Expand Product Offerings

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NEW YORK, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From metal engraving to automated batch production, Monport laser engraver and laser cutter machines are helping businesses streamline workflows, reduce setup time, and scale custom manufacturing with greater efficiency.

As demand grows for personalized products, branded merchandise, and small-batch manufacturing, businesses are increasingly prioritizing ease of use alongside performance when investing in laser engraving and cutting equipment. While precision and power remain essential, operators now expect systems that simplify workflows and reduce time spent on setup and training.

Monport is responding to this shift with a laser technology ecosystem designed to support real-world business operations. Its lineup includes the GA Series MOPA fiber laser engraver for metal marking, the Mega S CO2 desktop laser cutter for production-focused workflows, and the Reno Pro Vision desktop laser machine for automated smart engraving and cutting.

Across all systems, the focus is consistent: reduce complexity, improve productivity, and help users move from setup to production as quickly as possible.

User Experience Is Becoming a Competitive Advantage in Laser Manufacturing

Laser engraving has become a core tool for industries ranging from custom gift production and signage to industrial part marking and branded merchandise. However, many businesses entering the space encounter operational challenges that slow growth.

Common issues include long setup times, manual calibration, alignment errors, and inefficient batch processing. These factors can impact output capacity and increase labor demands, especially for small teams and growing businesses.

To address these challenges, Monport combines automation, intuitive design, and educational support to create a more accessible user experience.

Monport also strengthens user onboarding through a full support ecosystem, including:

Demo hosting sessions that guide users through setup, operation, and workflow optimizationA dedicated YouTube channel with step-by-step tutorials and project demonstrationsA blog and resource library offering technical guides, application insights, and creative ideas

Together, these resources help users shorten the learning curve and improve long-term machine efficiency.

GA Series MOPA Fiber Laser Engraver Expands Metal Customization Opportunities

The Monport GA 100W MOPA fiber laser engraver is designed for businesses focused on metal engraving, branding, and industrial marking applications.

Unlike standard marking systems, the GA Series supports color marking, deep engraving, 3D relief engraving, and metal cutting, allowing users to expand their product offerings without investing in multiple machines.

Key features include:

One-touch autofocus for simplified setupFast installation process completed in minutesEngraving speeds up to 10,000 mm/sPrecision down to 0.01 mm for detailed workAdvanced Galvo scanning for stable high-speed markingRotating laser head with expanded 300 × 300 mm engraving area

The system is commonly used for products such as tumblers, metal business cards, signage, awards, keychains, and industrial tags.

For businesses focused on high-value customization, the GA Series provides a pathway to expand into premium metal engraving services while maintaining efficient production workflows.

To learn more about the GA Series MOPA fiber laser engraver, visit Monport’s official website.

Mega S Desktop Laser Cutter Supports High-Volume Production

The Monport Mega S CO2 laser engraver and laser cutter is designed for businesses that require speed, consistency, and scalable production.

With engraving speeds up to 600 mm/s and precision as fine as 0.03 mm, the Mega S supports detailed cutting and engraving across materials such as wood, acrylic, and leather.

A key advantage for production-focused businesses is Smart Batch Fill technology, which allows multiple items to be processed simultaneously. This improves output efficiency and reduces manual workflow steps.

The Mega S also supports an optional conveyor belt system, enabling continuous material feeding for long or high-volume production runs. This makes it especially useful for businesses handling repetitive engraving tasks, bulk orders, or larger production workflows where uninterrupted processing improves efficiency.

Additional features include:

Autofocus system for automatic material adjustmentEnhanced airflow design for improved cutting qualityEfficient smoke extraction for cleaner operationSimplified optical alignment processSupport for automated feeding workflowsClass 1 safety design suitable for home and workshop environments

These capabilities make the Mega S a practical solution for signage production, personalized gifts, and small-scale manufacturing operations.

To learn more about the Mega S desktop laser cutter, visit Monport’s official website.

Reno Pro Vision Desktop Laser Machine Introduces Smart Automation

The Monport Reno65 Pro Vision desktop laser machine is built to simplify workflow management through integrated camera and automation technology.

Equipped with an 8MP HD camera, the system provides distortion-free workspace previews, allowing users to position designs accurately and reduce material waste.

The machine also features Monport’s Multi-Graphic-Smart-Filling™ technology, which scans materials and automatically fills multiple shapes with preset designs. Users can save templates for repeat production, improving consistency and efficiency over time.

Additional productivity features include:

Automatic contour recognition and extractionOne-touch startup systemMobile and panel control optionsIndustry-exclusive magnetic assisted focusAdjustable air assist systemErgonomic design with improved handlingHidden front passthrough for larger materialsSpacious 600 × 400 mm working area with dual platforms

These features help businesses reduce manual preparation time and improve overall production speed.

To learn more about the Reno Pro Vision desktop laser machine, visit Monport’s official website.

Designed to Help Businesses Scale with Confidence

Across industries, businesses are seeking laser solutions that combine performance with usability. Whether producing personalized merchandise, industrial parts, signage, or custom gifts, efficiency plays a critical role in profitability.

Monport’s laser systems are designed to support this demand by combining automation, precision engineering, and user-focused workflows across its product lineup.

From the GA Series MOPA fiber laser engraver to the Mega S desktop laser cutter and Reno Pro Vision desktop laser machine, each system is built to help users reduce operational friction and increase production capacity.

To further support users, Monport also provides hands-on demo hosting sessions, a dedicated YouTube channel with step-by-step tutorials, and an extensive blog library offering guides, project ideas, and technical learning resources.

By combining hardware innovation with accessible education, Monport continues to help businesses create more efficiently, scale faster, and expand their capabilities with confidence.

To learn more about Monport’s laser engraving and cutting solutions, visit Monport Laser.

About Monport Laser

Monport Laser is a provider of laser engraving and laser cutting solutions for hobbyists, small businesses and industrial users. Its product portfolio includes fiber laser engraver systems, CO2 laser engraver platforms and advanced laser machine technologies designed to support precision engraving, cutting and marking applications across industries including manufacturing, personalization, signage and custom product creation.

Media Contact:
Monport Laser
Email: official@monportlaser.com 
Website: www.monportlaser.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/monport-highlights-how-laser-technology-helps-businesses-increase-productivity-and-expand-product-offerings-302804973.html

SOURCE Monport

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