Maple Ridge, BC., December 06 – The City of Maple Ridge is proud to announce the launch of its Electrified Film Kiosk, a new state-of-the-art 800-amp electric kiosk that has the capacity to power entire film productions using clean, quiet energy.
Installed strategically at the “Rail Lot” near the Haney Bypass, the kiosk will eliminate an estimated 234 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions and 86,800 litres of diesel fuel used by generators at film 'Circuses' - central production hubs where trucks, gear, talent trailers, and other equipment are parked. Film productions will be charged a flat rate for use and can also leverage it as a high-efficiency charging station for mobile battery trailers that can then power filming efforts in off-site locations.
Maple Ridge is the only municipality in the region outside of Vancouver to construct a dedicated electric kiosk for the film industry.
"Maple Ridge has been a regional leader in film production this year, and this new kiosk helps us build on that success in a sustainable way," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing efficient power infrastructure, we’re positioning Maple Ridge as a premier destination for the film industry."
The new kiosk directly helps meet Council’s commitment to sustainability and achieve Council’s strategic priorities for ‘A Diversified, Thriving Economy and ‘Climate Leadership & Environmental Stewardship.
Collaborating On Sustainability
Maple Ridge’s new electric film kiosk was unveiled in an on-location evening event which was powered by the kiosk itself. Hosted by the City’s Economic Development team and made possible by the collaboration of several regional partners, the event featured an indoor/outdoor exhibition area showcasing battery technologies, innovative lighting features, camera cranes, green technologies, and sustainability initiatives driven by the film industry.
Funded in partnership with BC Hydro and a Reel Green grant, the kiosk cost $330,000 to plan and install and is expected to save an estimated $160,000 per year in fuel costs. In addition to expanding the capabilities and sustainability of film production in Maple Ridge, this resource is also expected to generate other indirect benefits as the production industry grows. City funding was allocated from the business planning budget.
"As we continue to enhance our city's infrastructure for the film industry, this kiosk represents our proactive approach to sustainability and economic growth," said Tyler Westover, Economic Development Director. "Our goal is to leverage resources like this to attract more film assets like studios, visual effects companies, and post-production facilities to Maple Ridge, creating a vibrant and supportive ecosystem for creative professionals."
This investment underscores Maple Ridge's commitment to fostering a competitive and environmentally responsible film industry.
Powering 2024 Film Success
In addition to the launch of the Electrified Film Kiosk, Maple Ridge has been an active advocate for the film industry this year and commended by the Film Commission of BC for its equitable tiered production permit process. Key initiatives include:
- Hosting a temporary employment fair for those affected by industry strikes
- Modernizing film bylaws and policies
- Digitizing intake forms to enhance client experience
- Streamlining processes for film industry engagement.
- Facilitated the first-ever intermittent traffic control event on Golden Ears Way, allowing a Netflix production to film and serving as a proof of concept for future economic benefits.
For more information, visit MapleRidge.ca/Filming.
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For additional information, contact
Draeven McGowan
C 604 340 5197
E dmcgowan@mapleridge.ca