EV Charger Expansion in Canada: How Does the Government Support It?

The consumer choice of electric vehicles is greater than ever before and can soon easily match that of ICE vehicles (internal combustion engines). However, the availability of EV charging stations across Canada may not be able to fully match the consumer demand, which makes even the most fervent environmental advocates hesitant to invest in a new electric vehicle. They are given no guarantee that the public EV charger infrastructure will grow to meet the increasing number of green cars. 

Is There Support from the Government to Install EV Charging Stations? 

The perspective of the entire Earth's population driving exclusively electric cars is quite inspiring. But the fact is that the provincial governments may not yet be prepared for such a change. In 2018, the Ontario Building Code was updated to require 20% of parking spaces in certain types of residential buildings and workspaces to be equipped with EV charging outlets. However, it was abolished in 2018 when the new Conservative party took over. Since then, the provincial governing bodies passed the decision-making process onto the local governments.

How Is EV Charger Infrastructure Expanding In Toronto?

According to the amended in Dec 2021 Zoning By-Law 569-2013, all residential parking spaces provided for dwelling in an apartment building, mixed-use building, "multiple dwelling unit building", detached house, semi-detached house, townhouse, duplex, triplex, fourplex, or for a secondary suite or laneway suite, excluding visitor parking spaces, must include an energized outlet capable of providing Level 2 charging or higher to the parking space. The By-Law also states that in situations other than those indicated above, 25 percent of the residential and non-residential parking spaces in a building must include an energized outlet capable of providing Level 2 charging or higher. More information on this By-Law (14) Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) can be accessed here. 

Is There a Future for EV Charging Stations in Condos?

According to the new government regulations, 100% of newly purchased vehicles are required to be zero emissions by 2035, which makes us, the consumers, believe that there is potential in the initiatives put forward by the government. 

One thing is clear - unlike property managers who still hesitate about whether it is worth investing in the EV charging infrastructure expansion, those who have already done so will certainly be ready to face the EV charger demand surge.

If you are looking for guidance on installing EC chargers in condominiums and multi-unit properties, read our comprehensive guide here.