Home EV charger installation costs in Canada (2025)

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming a no-brainer for Canadian motorists looking to purchase a new vehicle. In the last quarter of 2024 alone, zero-emission vehicles accounted for 18.9% of all new vehicle registrations in Canada, with Quebec leading all provinces at an astounding 42%.

With rising gas prices, EV rebates, and federal climate goals, more and more Canadians are deciding to ditch their conventional vehicles in favour of electric cars.

Before you enjoy your new ride, a question that often arises is how home EV chargers work and how much they're going to cost to install. Installation costs can vary depending on where you live, but it also comes down to your home's current electrical system and other factors.

In this guide, we'll give you a quick rundown of the costs you'll need to prepare for when installing a home charging station, so you can make an informed decision about whether a home EV charging station is worth your investment.

Electric vehicle charging types & speeds

When it comes to home charging solutions, there are two types of EV chargers you can install:

Level 1 EV charger

Level 1 EV chargers use a standard 120-volt outlet, which means you won't need additional wiring or electrical work to charge your electric vehicle at home--simply plug it into your wall! This type of home charger has a charging time of approximately 8 kilometres per hour. If you're someone who drives infrequently throughout the week, a level 1 EV charger is all you need to get the job done.

Level 2 EV charger

Level 2 EV chargers use a 240V outlet, requiring the assistance of a licensed electrician to oversee your charger installation. Compared to a standard level 1 EV charger at home, level 2 EV chargers have a faster charging time. Delivering between 30 and 50 kilometres of range per hour, level 2 chargers are what many homeowners in Canada opt for, especially if they have a busy lifestyle.

EV charger installation costs by province

The cost of installing EV chargers can range between $1,200 and $2,000 in Canada. But, as we briefly mentioned, how much it costs to install an EV charger in your home can vary depending on where you live and what kind of electrical setup your home has. Here's a breakdown of installation costs by province below:

Ontario

In Ontario, labour costs for certified electricians can range between $90 $130 an hour. If your home requires an electrical panel upgrade, this may cost you anywhere between $1,500 $3,000, depending on the current state of your electrical system. You'll also need to factor in the cost of permit fees, which can cost you up to $250, depending on which municipality you live in.

Alberta

In Alberta, certified electrician labour costs can cost you up to $1,000. On top of this, you're looking at $1,200 for the level to EV charger unit, and another $1,500 for the home installation. If you live in an older home that requires electrical panel upgrades, you'll need to prepare for an additional $1,500 to $4,500, along with wiring and electrical permit fees.

British Columbia

For British Columbian homeowners, the cost of installing EV chargers in your garage typically ranges between $1,000 and $3,000. Again, this price can vary based on whether your electrical panel needs an upgrade, electrician labour expenses, additional materials like necessary wiring, and more.

Quebec

In Quebec, homeowners can anticipate paying anywhere between $1,200 and $3,500 for their EV charger installation. This cost includes the labour of a licensed electrician and materials. However, if you need an electrical panel upgrade, the total cost to install an EV charger can increase.

Manitoba

$500 to $1,500 for the EV charger and an additional $1,000 to $3,000 for the charger installation.

Saskatchewan

$1,000 to $3,000 for the EV charger and permits. Panel upgrades and charger installation costs can add an additional amount to these costs.

New Brunswick

$1,749 for the EV charger, charger installation, permits, and warranties (without rebate applied)

Home setup considerations for your electric car

If you're interested in installing an EV charger at home, there are a couple of things you need to consider, especially when it comes to your home's current electrical system:

Electrical panel

Your home's electrical panel needs to have enough capacity to support the EV charger. A 200V panel is ideal, but in most older homes, you'll likely find a 100V panel, which may not be enough to safely support a level 2 home EV charger.

Access to charging point

If your garage or driveway is not close to your electrical panel, electricians may need to route wiring through finished ceilings, walls, or underground, which can add additional costs to your EV charger installation.

Electrical upgrades for a 240V circuit

Level 2 chargers usually require a separate 240V circuit. If your panel is lacking one, an electrician will have to install one. In some cases, this involves setting up a sub-panel or completely upgrading your main home panel.

Government Incentives and Rebates

If you're worried about the cost of your EV charger installation, know that there are rebates and incentives available to EV owners that can help you cover some of the costs. Provincial rebates include:

• British Columbia: With the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program, you can receive up to $350 for your EV charger and installation. BC Hydro also offers a top-up of $150 for certain chargers.

• Quebec: With the Roulez vert program, the Quebec government is giving EV owners up to $600 for the purchase and installation of a home charging station when installed by a professional electrician.

Make sure to check your municipality's websites to learn more about where rebates exist for your community!

DIY installation vs. Professional installation

Although it may be tempting to install your own charger at home, without the right certifications, you could put your health and safety at risk, including violating local building and safety codes, increasing your risk of electrical fires, electrocution, and voiding your home insurance. Additionally, most provinces require certified electricians to perform the installation in order to qualify for home charger rebates.

Do I need a permit to instal a charger?

Yes, most municipalities require you to have a permit when installing a Level 2 home EV charger.

How long does installation take?

Installing an EV charging station at home can take anywhere between 2 and 6 hours to complete. It really comes down to whether you need panel upgrades, the charging location you choose, and the complexity of the job at hand.

Will installing a charger increase my home’s value?

Absolutely. With electric vehicles becoming more popular among Canadian motorists, having a home charger can increase the value of your property and serve as a unique selling point to potential home buyers, should you wish to sell in the future.

Contact BrokerLink today

With approximately 34,000 public charging stations across Canada, electric vehicle infrastructure is rapidly expanding. But there's no denying the convenience that comes with an EV charging station at home.

Whether you have further questions about investing in a charging setup at home, are interested in learning how EV charging can influence your home insurance rates, or need to purchase electric vehicle car insurance for your new ride, the experienced brokers at BrokerLink are here to help.

To speak with us, contact us over the phone or via email to chat with a broker directly. You can also get a free electric vehicle insurance quote from the comfort of your own home using our free online quote tool!

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