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How to install EV charging at a workplace

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 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

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 for pre-approval: Rebates for workplace chargers

Step 7: Select chargers

Choose and purchase EV chargers that qualify for the rebate.  See models eligible for charger rebates and choose a networked charger from our database of rebate-eligible chargers for apartments and workplaces.

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.

Rebates for workplace chargers

installing a public charger

Charging considerations

Before you start the installation process, consider these things:

  • There are many factors to consider 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 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 comes with big benefits. By offering EV charging for employees, you will:

    • Attract and retain engaged, high-value employees
    • Boost the green credibility of your company 
    • Help to meet any business sustainability goals

    By offering chargers for customers who visit your business, you may:

    • Bring in new customers who are attracted to businesses that offer a place to charge up
    • Encourage customers to stay longer or come back more often
  • Workplaces can get a rebate of up to $2,000 per charger to purchase and install eligible Level 2 networked EV chargers for employee use, to a maximum of $14,000. This incentive does not apply to new construction. Pre-approval is required.

    Rebates for workplace chargers

Related content

EV charger rebates for workplaces

Apply for pre-approval

EV chargers eligible for rebates

View eligible chargers

EV news and resources

Learn about it

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Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350. 

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 
Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

If installed at an apartment/condo or workplace, this networked charger may be eligible for a rebate. 

Rebates for apartments/condos

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $1,400 to $2,000 per charger.

Rebate amounts vary depending on factors such as whether or not the building is participating in other EV Ready rebates.

Rebates for workplaces

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $2,000 per charger.

Pre-approval from BC Hydro is required for apartment/condo and workplace customers. Program maximums apply.

Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350.

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 

Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

Features

Load management: Allows multiple EV chargers to share the same electrical circuit, allowing the charging power to be distributed across each charger.

Networked: A networked charging station that is connected to a central system via internet communication such as open protocol (e.g. OCPP, OpenADR or other) or a proprietary system (must be connected to a network for minimum of two years).

Multiple ports: Allows multiple vehicles to charge at the same time.

CSA Certification: Tested and certified electric vehicle charging and components by CSA Group. 

cETL Certification: Compliant with North American safety standards and tested/certified by Intertek.

cUL Certification: Compliant with Canadian safety standards by UL Canada.

Breaker Current

Every circuit breaker has specified amperage (amount of current). The rating is the labelled on the breaker. Understanding your electrical service and panel is important in determining the type of EV charger you can support.

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