EV CHARGING - THE BASICS
Level 1 vs Level 2 vs Level 3
Level 1
Uses a standard 120V wall plug. Slow, trickle charge.
Level 2
Dedicated 240V circuit ranging from 40 - 60 amps based on charge speed.
Level 3
Public fast charging - not available for residential use.
LEVEL 2 CHARGING
Is Your Home Ready?
Before installation, a licensed electrician must assess the electrical capacity for your home. This includes performing a load calculation to account for existing electrical demands on your home.
This assessment helps answer questions like:
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Can the existing electrical service support EV charging, or is load management or service upgrade required?
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Is there physical breaker space or is a panel upgrade required?
ELECTRICAL PERMITS & INSPECTIONS
Why They Matter
Professional EV charger installations in BC include permitting and inspection as part of the process, not as an optional add-on. It is also a rebate-eligibility requirement.
For homeowners, permits and inspections provide important protections:
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Confirmation that the installation meets current safety standards
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Documentation that protects your home insurance coverage
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Records that matter during future home renovations or resale
REBATES AND INCENTIVES
What's Available?
Installing a Level 2 EV charger at home may qualify you for rebates and bill credits through BC Hydro and CleanBC.
Level 2 EV Charger Rebate - Up to $350
This rebate helps offset the cost of the charging equipment itself.
Smart Charger Rebate - Up to $250
Some chargers are considered smart chargers, meaning they connect to Wi-Fi and support features like scheduled charging and utility programs.
Load Management (EVEMS) Rebate - Up to $200
Homes with limited electrical capacity may require an Electric Vehicle Energy Management System (EVEMS), also known as load management.
These systems allow EV charging to operate safely by adjusting charging power based on total household demand.
Peak Saver Program - Up to $250 enrollment bonus + ongoing bill credits
BC Hydro’s Peak Saver program rewards homeowners for allowing smart chargers to temporarily reduce charging during periods of high electricity demand.
FAQ'S
How much does a home EV charger installation cost?
The total cost depends on factors such as electrical capacity, distance to the charger location, charge speed, and whether a charger is being supplied. These details are confirmed during the home assessment.
Do I need an electrical panel upgrade?
Not always. Many homes can support Level 2 charging without a full panel upgrade.
In some cases, load management solutions can be used to safely support EV charging instead.
Do you supply EV chargers and accessories?
Yes, we supply EV chargers that are known to be rebate eligible.
We also provide mounting pedestals, lockable enclosures and other accessories upon request.
Can I supply my own EV charger?
We’re happy to install homeowner-supplied chargers that hold the legal certifications.
Please note that if you supply your own charger, we can advise on rebate eligibility but cannot guarantee that it will qualify.
How long does installation take?
Most residential EV charger installations are completed in a single day.
Do I need permits and inspections?
Yes. Electrical permits and inspections are required in British Columbia for EV charger installations and are included as part of a professional installation.
Do you perform other electrical work?
We specialize in residential EV charging installations, including related electrical upgrades and load management solutions.
If additional electrical work is required or requested, we’re happy to review and quote those items separately.
What areas do you service?
We provide residential EV charger installations throughout the Lower Mainland. If you're not sure, feel free to Contact Us and ask if we service your specific area.
Take the first step and qualify for a free home assessment today!