The Cost of an EV Charger Installation Can Vary
Throughout the country, Canadian drivers are switching from gas-powered to electric vehicles, joining an ongoing revolution in the way we get around. Year over year, Canada has experienced a notable rise in the adoption of electric vehicles, fueled by government incentives and an increasing consumer consciousness towards environmental sustainability. Alongside EV ownership has come an increased interest in at-home charging options. But how much does it typically cost to install an EV charger at home in Canada? The answer depends on a variety of factors.
As Vancouver’s EV charging experts, the TCA Electric team has led the EV charge for years now. Our licensed and qualified electricians have installed a wide variety of EV charging points everywhere from single- and multi-family residential properties to commercial businesses. If you’re looking to install an EV charger at home, here’s where the typical cost falls in Canada.
How Much Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger at Home in Canada?
Typically, the cost to install an EV charger will fall somewhere between $1,000 and $3,000. This is quite a wide range—and the reality is that the true total cost can add up to even more than that in some cases (which we’ll cover later).
The reason the cost varies so widely comes down to a variety of factors. For example, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 chargers all cost different amounts and require different amounts of labour. Additionally, the layout of your home and the distance between your selected charging location can add to or subtract from the cost to install an EV charger as well.
Which Brand Will You Choose?
EV chargers come in a variety of charging capabilities, but they’re also manufactured by several different brands. Tesla, FLO, and ChargePoint are just a handful of the top EV charger manufacturers, and their products each vary slightly in terms of cost, even though each offer Level 2 chargers (the most common for home charging solutions). Depending on which specific brand and product you choose, the total cost to install an EV charger in your home will fluctuate accordingly.
We’ve covered the costs of various ChargePoint and FLO chargers here, while you can learn more about the cost of a Tesla charging station here.
Will You Need to Upgrade Your Service or Replace Your Panel?
Not all electrical panels are equipped to handle the additional power demands of an EV charging station. If this is the case in your home, you’ll first need to upgrade your electrical panel before installing a home charging station. While not technically part of the cost to install an EV charger, many homeowners in Canada will still be faced with this additional expense, which should be accounted for when budgeting for a home charger.
The Good News? Many Rebates and Incentives Are Available!
Clearly, costs can add up when it comes to EV charger installation. However, one unique advantage for drivers in Canada is that plenty of rebates and incentives are available to reduce the upfront cost to install an EV charger in your home.
British Columbia offers particularly robust rebate options, with the BC Hydro rebate program continuing to offer up to $350 in incentives for these devices. As of December 2023, they’ve also added a rebate for EV power management devices used to avoid electrical upgrades when installing an EV charger. Various other rebates have been available as well, so drivers in Canada can generally expect to be able to take advantage of some form of cost incentive when adding an EV charger to their home.
Need a More Exact Number? Get a Quote Today!
TCA Electric is Vancouver’s leading electrician when it comes to all things EV charging. If you’re an EV owner looking to achieve complete freedom, charging convenience, and maximum value, a home EV charging station is the perfect way to make that happen. Our licensed and qualified electricians have been installing EV chargers since this technology first emerged, and we know exactly which factors to consider when choosing the right charger and navigating the rebate application process. Contact TCA Electric today to schedule an inspection and estimate!