Charging at home ! Do I need a panel upgrade to charge my EV at home?
Depending on how far you drive each day, you may be able to meet all your driving needs by plugging in while at home. Most EVs can be charged with a standard 120 V outlet. To charge the vehicle more quickly, you may want to install a dedicated 240 V outlet or charging system. You may also be able to plug in at your workplace, or at one of the growing numbers of public charging stations.
In order to have a dedicated 240V outlet for EV charging at home, the main electrical panel should have enough spare capacity. Section 86 of CEC and OESC are devoted to EV charging. Meanwhile in Ontario, the ESA has published Bulletin 86-1-4 on May 2022 that clarifies the EV charging requirements. In following pages an easy way is described to help you evaluate if the existing panel could handle new EV load or you need a panel upgrade.
Depending on how far you drive each day, you may be able to meet all your driving needs by plugging in while at home. Most EVs can be charged with a standard 120 V outlet. To charge the vehicle more quickly, you may want to install a dedicated 240 V outlet or charging system. You may also be able to plug in at your workplace, or at one of the growing numbers of public charging stations.
In order to have a dedicated 240V outlet for EV charging at home, the main electrical panel should have enough spare capacity. Section 86 of CEC and OESC are devoted to EV charging. Meanwhile in Ontario, the ESA has published Bulletin 86-1-4 on May 2022 that clarifies the EV charging requirements. In following pages an easy way is described to help you evaluate if the existing panel could handle new EV load or you need a panel upgrade.