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Public charging

Charge on the go with public EV charging stations

There are now more than 2,500 electric vehicle (EV) public charging stations in B.C., and they’re becoming much more common right across North America. Whether you’re filling up for your daily commute or a scenic road trip, B.C.’s clean electricity can power your journey.

Charging networks in B.C.

While the majority of B.C.'s public Level 2 charging stations are free to use, many require drivers to join a service network to access the stations. Once you've registered with a network, you'll be sent a member card which you can scan at the charging station you want to use. Some networks' stations can also be accessed using a smartphone app or a credit card. And obviously, if you register with multiple networks, you get access to more charging stations.

Currently, there are six main networks in B.C.:

  • BC Hydro
  • ChargePoint
  • Flo
  • Greenlots (for fast chargers)
  • Petro-Canada
  • Tesla (for Tesla vehicles)

Two other keys to this community

  • Here are some EV charging etiquette guidelines you can follow to help create a positive experience for all EV drivers:

    • Take only what you need and limit your charge to 30 to 40 minutes.
    • Stay close by in case you need to move your vehicle to let someone else charge.
    • Only park in an EV-designated charging stall if you’re charging or waiting to charge.
    • Don’t unplug another vehicle. If their vehicle is fully charged, carefully remove the plug from it and use it to charge your own, or hang it up and put it away if using the other connector.
    • When you’re done, neatly put the charging cord away so that people don’t trip or drive over it.
    • Keep the station tidy.
    • Be respectful and help your fellow drivers out. If you see a neighbouring EV with its charge port open, plug it in once your charge is complete. Note that this only applies in situations where charging is free.

    Watch: Dave's top 4 EV charging etiquette tips 

  • Most public charging stations are easy to find via PlugShare, a smartphone app and website. You can quickly use PlugShare's filters (network and plug type) to zero in on the stations that work best for you and your vehicle.

    PlugShare is the most comprehensive, up-to-date tool for finding charging stations wherever you are. EV owners can add, review and edit station information – and even safely share their private charging station at home with other drivers.

    PlugShare's helpful maps include colour-coded station icons to highlight which stations are public Level 2 or fast charging, and often include valuable crowd-sourced information such as whether a station is not working, or detailed directions for on-site navigation in large parkades or parking lots.

    Find out more about PlugShare

Man using a public fast charger

Learn about BC Hydro’s network

BC Hydro currently operates 70 fast chargers located along B.C.'s major highways. Learn more about our network, and how to use our stations.

Plan your route

Using BC Hydro fast chargers

If you're new to using a fast charger, or need help we've got you covered. Visit our help centre for assistance with charging basics, questions about charging, and our mobile app.

Visit the help centre

Plan your next road trip

With the average range of EVs increasing and charging networks expanding across Canada and the US, it's easy to take a road trip in your EV.  We've made planning simple with tips and itineraries to help you make the most out of your next trip.

Taking a road trip in an EV

Related content

Charger installation

Get the guide

Where to buy an EV charger

Get the guide

BC Hydro EV mobile app

Download the app

Quick Links

  • Home EV charger options
  • BC Hydro EV mobile app
  • Fast charger help centre

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  • CleanBC Go Electric

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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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