Electric terminal incentives: a practical guide
Surprisingly, a majority of consumers are still unaware of the existence of federal and provincial rebates for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, even though these have been in effect for several years now. This is the finding of a recent survey by Electric Mobility Canada (EMC).
We can imagine that even more people are unaware that an electric charging station subsidy for these vehicles is also available. Let's find out.
How much does a charging station cost without subsidy?
There are two types of electric vehicle charging station: wall-mounted and pedestal-mounted. Most can be installed indoors or outdoors.
According to CAA-Quebec, which offers a selection of models and accessories via its online store, the cost of a bollard ranges from $800 to $1,500, depending on the options selected and the quality of construction. An additional amount is required for installation by a master electrician. The organization notes that some master electricians can sell residential charging stations, as can car dealers or electrical retailers.
The various subsidies available
Although the Canadian government subsidizes the purchase of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, this is not currently the case for charging stations, whether for home or work.
The first place to look is the Quebec government's Go green program. This program provides financial assistance of $600 for the purchase and home installation of a 240-volt AC charging station.
Who is eligible for this subsidy?
Only a charging station on the list of eligible charging stations for the Go Green program is eligible for financial assistance. The charging station must be new (i.e., not used or a demonstrator) and, in the case of a lease, the contract must be valid for at least 36 months in order to receive financial assistance. Note that this condition has been in force since April 18, 2023.
The applicant must, of course, be a Quebec resident and the owner or long-term lessee of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. In addition, as you might expect, proof of eligible expenses must be provided. In other words, you can't apply unless the charging station has already been purchased and installed.
One last important point: if you've benefited from a promotion, for example from the dealer, car manufacturer or terminal manufacturer, you may not be eligible for the financial assistance offered by the government. You must have actually paid at least $600 (before taxes) for all eligible expenses to qualify for the $600.
Electric terminal subsidy: what does your municipality offer?
In addition to the electric charging station subsidy available under the provincial Go Green program, many Quebec municipalities offer financial assistance for the purchase and installation of a charging station.
In general, the amount of this subsidy varies from $100 to $250 per resident. Some cities are a little more generous. For example, Sherbrooke offers a subsidy of up to $300, Dorval offers a 50% rebate on installation costs up to $500, while Varennes matches the provincial subsidy by 25%.
In Montreal, the district of Saint-Laurent offers support of 35% of the provincial subsidy amount, up to a maximum of $210 per residence. The assistance is higher for low-income families, at 50% of the amount of the Roulez vert subsidy, up to a maximum of $300.
