How to Install EV Charging at Workplace| BC Hydro

9 steps for a successful installation at your business

Follow the steps we've outlined below to install an EV charger for use by employees and customers at your business. We've also provided some key considerations and resources to help you have a smooth ride through the process.

Support to get started

Businesses looking to install EV charging stations can get up to five hours of free advice and planning assistance from an expert in EV charging and equipment.

Contact an EV Advisor

Installation steps

Step 1: Get permission

Unless you have authority over the building, it’s likely that you’ll have to get permission in order to start the process of installing EV chargers.

To be eligible for rebates, you’ll also need to complete the proof of approval form to validate that you have obtained permission from the individual or group with authority over the property.

Download form: Proof of approval to install electric vehicle (EV) charging [PDF, 95 KB]

Step 2: Hire an electrician

Hire a certified electrician, preferably one who has completed the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training program. You can find a qualified electrician through our Alliance of Energy Professionals.

Step 3: Select location

Determine where the chargers will be installed.

Step 4: Check your electrical system

Determine whether the electrical infrastructure in your building can accommodate the EV charging stations and make upgrades as needed.

Check to make sure you have sufficient electricity flowing into your property to support EV chargers. If you need to upgrade your service, learn about electrical connections and extensions here.

Step 5: Contractor consultation

For you to be eligible for charger rebates, your electrician will need to complete a contractor consultation form. Be aware that this may not be completed during their preliminary visit. You’ll need to include the completed form when you submit your pre-approval application.

Download form: EV contractor consultation form for apartments and workplaces [PDF, 110 KB]

Step 6: Rebate pre-approval

Submit a pre-approval application to get a rebate on the purchase and installation of the charging stations.

To meet our rebate eligibility criteria, you'll need to wait until you've received pre-approval from BC Hydro before you purchase or install chargers.

Apply now: B.C. EV charger rebate program

Step 7: Select chargers

Choose and purchase EV chargers that qualify for the rebate. To be eligible for charger rebates, choose a networked charger from our list of eligible chargers.

Know your options: Choosing an EV charger

Step 8: Installation

Install the EV charging station. Your electrician will ensure that the necessary permits are obtained and that the work is inspected by your municipality (or Technical Safety BC) upon completion. Your electrician will need to complete the contractor installation form after the installation is complete. You'll need this form when you apply for a rebate.

Download form: EV contractor installation form for workplaces [PDF, 111 KB]

Step 9: Rebate application

Gather your documentation and submit your application for a rebate online.

B.C. EV charger rebate program

Charging considerations

Before you start the installation process, consider these things:

There are many factors to be considered when planning for EV charging stations at a workplace. Here's what you'll need to be aware of:
- Where to install chargers, taking into account the location of employee and customer parking and your electrical connections
- The amount of electricity being used by your business currently, which is determined by calculating the load in the past year:
  You can log in to your online account and check your electricity consumption for the last 12 months to determine how much electricity you've been using
  
  There is a cost to have us create new electrical connections or modify your existing electrical service
Charges and fees for electrical service connections
Making it appealing for EV drivers to work for you or do business with you comes with big benefits. By offering EV charging for employees and customers, you will:
- Attract and retain engaged, high-value employees
- Boost the green credibility of your company
- Help to meet any business sustainability goals
- Encourage customers to stay longer or come back more often
Workplaces, including B.C.-registered companies, building owners, managers or other building representatives who are responsible for an eligible workplace or building in B.C., may be eligible for rebates of up to 50% of the purchase and installation costs of eligible, new, Level 2 charging equipment, to a maximum of $14,000 (no more than $2,000 per station). This incentive does not apply to new construction; pre-approval is required.

B.C.'s EV charger rebate program

How to install EV charging at a workplace