EV Charger Installation Costs in Canada
Written by EV Quotes |
December 2025
With rising gas prices and ambitious climate goals, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a popular choice for Canadian drivers. In the last quarter of 2024, zero-emission vehicles made up 18.9% of all new vehicle registrations in Canada. As more Canadians switch, a key question emerges: how much does it cost to install an EV charger at home?
The convenience of a home charging station is undeniable, but the EV charger installation cost can vary significantly across Canada. Your final bill depends on your province, your home's electrical system, and the type of charger you choose.
This guide will break down the home EV charging cost by province, explain the different charger types, and highlight available EV charger rebates in Canada to help you make an informed investment.
Understanding Home EV Charger Types
Before diving into costs, it's important to understand the two main types of home charging solutions available to Canadian homeowners.
Level 1 EV Charger
A Level 1 charger uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and typically comes with your vehicle. It requires no professional installation, making it the most affordable option. However, it's also the slowest, adding only about 8 kilometres of range per hour. This makes it suitable for infrequent drivers or plug-in hybrids, but less practical for most all-electric vehicle owners.
Level 2 EV Charger
A Level 2 charger is the gold standard for home EV charging. It operates on a 240V circuit similar to a clothes dryer or stove and delivers between 30 and 50 kilometres of range per hour. This faster charging speed makes it the preferred choice for most Canadian EV owners, as it can fully recharge a vehicle overnight. However, it requires professional installation by a licensed electrician, which is a significant part of the overall cost.
Level 3 (DC Fast) Charger
Level 3 chargers , also known as DC Fast Chargers, are the high-speed chargers found at public stations. Due to their immense power requirements and costs ($20,000+), they are not suitable for residential installation.
EV Charger Installation Cost by Province
The total EV charger installation cost in Canada typically ranges from $1,200 to over $3,500, but this figure can fluctuate based on several factors. Below is a breakdown of the average cost to install an EV charger at home for each province.
These costs are estimates and can change based on your specific home setup.
| Province | Estimated Installation Cost Range (Including Charger) |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $2,000 – $4,500+ |
| British Columbia | $2,000 – $4,000+ |
| Quebec | $1,800 – $4,100+ |
| Alberta | $2,700 – $6,700+ |
| Manitoba | $1,500 – $4,500+ |
| Saskatchewan | $2,500 – $5,000+ |
| New Brunswick | ~$1,750+ (before rebate) |
Ontario
In Ontario, the average installation cost can vary based on labour rates and your home's specific needs.
- Electrician Labour: $90–$130 per hour.
- EV Charger Permit Fees: Up to $250, depending on your municipality.
- EV Charger Panel Upgrade Cost: If your home has an older 100-amp panel, an upgrade to a 200-amp service may be necessary, costing between $1,500 and $3,000.
Alberta
For homeowners in Alberta, the EV home charger installation price can be higher, especially for older homes.
- Electrician Labour: Up to $1,000 for the installation job.
- EV Charger Unit: Approximately $1,200 for a Level 2 unit.
- Panel Upgrade Cost: An additional $1,500–$4,500 for older homes needing more capacity.
British Columbia
The cost to install an EV charger at home in British Columbia is influenced by your home's existing electrical infrastructure.
- Total Installation Cost: Ranges from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Variables: Price is affected by the need for an EV charger panel upgrade, the complexity of the EV charger wiring cost, and labour expenses.
Quebec
Quebec residents can expect costs similar to other major provinces, with potential increases for necessary electrical work.
- Total Installation Cost: Between $1,200 and $3,500, including labour and materials.
- Additional Costs: An electrical panel upgrade will increase the final EV charging station installation cost.
Manitoba
- EV Charger Unit: $500 to $1,500.
- Installation Cost: An additional $1,000 to $3,000.
Saskatchewan
- EV Charger Unit & Permits: $1,000 to $3,000.
- Additional Costs: Panel upgrades and installation labour are extra.
New Brunswick
- Total Installation Cost: Approximately $1,749 for the charger, installation, permits, and warranty (before applying rebates).
Key Factors Influencing Home Installation Costs
The provincial estimates provide a baseline, but your final EV charger installation cost will depend on several factors unique to your home.
Electrical Panel Capacity
Your home's electrical panel must have enough capacity to support the continuous load of a Level 2 charger. Most modern homes with 200-amp service are sufficient. However, older homes with 100-amp panels often require an EV charger panel upgrade, which can cost between $1,500 and $4,500. A licensed electrician must perform a load calculation to determine if an upgrade is necessary.
Distance to Charging Point
The location of your electrical panel relative to your desired charging spot is a major cost factor. If your garage or driveway is far from the panel, the electrician will need to run more EV charger wiring, potentially through finished walls or ceilings. This increases both material and labour costs.
240V Circuit Installation
A Level 2 charger requires its own dedicated 240V circuit. If your panel doesn't have a spare slot for a new double-pole breaker, your electrician will need to install one. This 240V outlet installation is usually bundled into the overall quote, but can become more expensive if a sub-panel is needed.
EV Charger Permit Requirements
In Canada, you must obtain an electrical permit to install a Level 2 charger. These permit requirements are mandatory and ensure the installation is safe and code-compliant. Permit fees typically range from $100 to $250 and are handled by your electrician. A professional installation with a permit is also a condition for most provincial EV charger rebates in Canada.
How Government Rebates Can Lower Your Costs
To encourage EV adoption, many provinces offer generous rebates that can significantly reduce your home EV charging cost. These incentives can cover both the charger and the installation.
- British Columbia: The CleanBC program offers a rebate of up to $350 for single-family homes.
- Quebec: The Roulez vert program provides financial assistance of up to $600 for the purchase and installation of a home charger.
- New Brunswick: The Plug-In NB program offers a rebate of up to $750 to cover 50% of the cost of a new home charger and installation.
These programs change frequently, so it's essential to check the latest information for your province and municipality.
For a complete list of incentives, explore our EV charger rebates guides.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
While it might be tempting to save money by installing the charger yourself, this is strongly discouraged and often illegal for Level 2 chargers. Improper installation can lead to electrical fires, void your home insurance, and disqualify you from rebates.
Hiring a certified EV charger electrician is crucial. A professional ensures the installation is safe, compliant with the Canadian Electrical Code, and eligible for all available incentives.
Our guide on how to choose the right installer can help you find a qualified expert.
Get Your EV Charger Installed the Right Way
Understanding the EV charger installation cost is the first step toward enjoying the convenience of charging at home. While prices vary by province and depend heavily on your home's electrical setup, a professional installation is a valuable investment in safety, reliability, and property value.
Let's Connect You with Certified EV Charger Installers
The best way to determine your exact costs is to get quotes from certified professionals. At EV Quotes, we connect you with licensed and verified electricians across Canada, so you can get up to three free quotes and choose the best pro for your needs.