Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in British Columbia will soon see an increase in charging costs, as BC Hydro has confirmed it will adjust pricing across its public EV charging network beginning April 1, 2026.
The utility, which operates one of the largest public charging networks in the province, says the rate change follows a year of significant growth and are required to support long-term network operations and future expansion.
Starting April 1, drivers can expect the following prices (before tax):
- Level 2 charging: $0.3083 per kWh (no idle fee)
- Fast charging (25 kW or higher): $0.3969 per kWh
- Idle fee: $0.40 per minute (no change)
According to BC Hydro, the increase will amount to approximately $0.84 more per session for an average passenger vehicle, and around $1.68 more per session for a typical pickup truck.
While no one welcomes higher costs, the impact appears relatively modest, especially compared to the price volatility drivers often see at gas stations. Even after the adjustment, BC Hydro maintains its pricing remains in line with other public charging providers across British Columbia. Over the past 12 months, the company has rolled out ultra-fast 350 kW and 400 kW chargers, expanded access to more vehicle types, and increased its footprint to more than 850 charging ports province-wide.
The rate update comes as the provincial network continues to scale. Over the past 12 months, the company has rolled out ultra-fast 350 kW and 400 kW chargers, expanded access to more vehicle types, and increased its footprint to more than 850 charging ports province-wide.
BC Hydro says drivers can expect more fast chargers, improved geographic coverage, and broader connector compatibility in the year ahead. Notably, new sites will increasingly include connectors compatible with Tesla’s NACS, the North American Charging Standard adopted by a growing list of automakers.
