New rebates for EV charging stations make it easier to go electric

Thinking of buying an electric vehicle? With new rebates on home charging stations now available, the decision just got easier. — Photo courtesy Natural Resources Canada

With more than $4 million in CleanBC energy rebates, it’s now easier to buy and install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at home and work.

For a limited time, to help with the upfront costs that come with EV’s, BC Hydro is matching the provincial offer of $350 for single-family homes, allowing you to get up to a $700 rebate for the purchase and installation of an eligible EV charger. A $2,000 rebate is available for the installation of a Level 2 charging station designed for multiple users in condominiums and apartments. Up to five hours of free support services from an EV charging station advisor are also available for condominiums, apartments and workplaces seeking to address their EV charging needs.

The cost of buying and installing a charging station can range from $700 to $2,000. For a multi-unit residential building, the cost can range from $2,000 to $12,000.

“We’re pleased to be working with the Province of B.C. to make at-home charging more accessible to EV owners in B.C.,” said Chris O’Riley, BC Hydro president and chief executive officer. “At-home charging is not only convenient for EV owners, with BC Hydro’s low electricity rates, it also offers significant savings over fuelling a gas-powered vehicle.”

In order to qualify for the CleanBC rebates, home and workplace charging stations must be installed, and final documentation submitted, by March 31, 2020. The CleanBC Home and Workplace EV Charging Program is being administered by BC Hydro and FortisBC in their respective delivery areas.

“Through CleanBC, it’s more affordable and convenient than ever for British Columbians to go electric,” said Michelle Mungall, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “With these new rebates for EV charging stations, we’re making it easier to switch to electric vehicles.”