British Columbia is planning a significant expansion of its public EV charging network, with BC Hydro announcing it will install 3,500 new public charging ports by 2035 to help meet growing demand from electric vehicle (EV) drivers.
The $700 million investment will more than triple BC Hydro’s existing fast-charging network, which currently consists of 917 charging ports at 190 locations across the province. No specific locations have been announced, but the new charging hubs are planned for major highways, urban centres, and communities throughout B.C.
The expansion comes as EV adoption continues to climb. More than 238,000 light-duty zero-emission vehicles are now registered in British Columbia, compared to just over 3,000 in 2015.
“As conflicts overseas increase pain at the pumps here at home, more British Columbians are switching to electric vehicles,” said Energy and Climate Solutions Minister Adrian Dix. “We need to make sure they can count on a charging network that is convenient and reliable.”
The next phase of BC Hydro’s network will focus on improving both charging speeds and the overall experience. Future sites will standardize on 200 kW DC fast chargers, while select high-traffic locations will feature 400 kW ultra-fast chargers.
The utility also plans to introduce Plug & Charge capability, tap-to-pay support, and larger charging hubs designed to reduce wait times during busy travel periods.
Some locations will go beyond charging, with “signature” sites offering amenities like washrooms and showcase locations featuring canopies and digital signage.
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