Ontario, Canada’s most populous province and an economic powerhouse, is leading the nationwide transition to electric vehicles (EVs) with an impressive expansion of EV charging infrastructure. Home to major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, Ontario hosts a rapidly growing population of EV owners who benefit from an evolving network of public and private charging stations. This accelerating buildout is supported by provincial and federal investments, innovative private sector initiatives, and a strong commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This article delivers a deep dive into Ontario’s EV charging stations in 2025. It covers charging locations, types of chargers, leading providers, government incentives, pricing, and practical insights for everyday EV drivers and travellers in the province.
Ontario’s Evolving EV Charging Landscape
Ontario is at the forefront of Canada’s electric mobility movement, with more than 8,000 public charging ports at over 2,900 accessible stations as of 2025. The provincial government has pledged significant funding—about $91 million—to support EV charging infrastructure, particularly in smaller communities and transit corridors. This complements robust federal investments under programs like Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP), aimed at building 50,000 new chargers nationwide by 2030.
Ontario’s commitment extends to ensuring EV charging stations are geographically distributed across urban, suburban, and rural areas, improving access and reducing range anxiety statewide.
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Key EV Charging Locations in Ontario
Ontario’s EV charging network spans a diverse array of locations, including:
- Major Urban Centers: Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, and Hamilton have dense networks of Level 2 and DC fast chargers at shopping malls, office towers, municipal parking garages, and public parks. Toronto’s Green P Parking Authority has expanded its municipal charging footprint with several fast chargers and Level 2 ports.
- Highway Corridors and ONroute Service Centres: Ivy’s Charge & Go network dominates charging along major highways with over 80 Level 3 fast chargers at 23 ONroute stops across Ontario. These support rapid charging speeds up to 150 kW, enabling drivers to recharge up to 100 km of range in under 20 minutes, making long-distance travel feasible.
- Rural and Small Communities: The provincial EV ChargeON program has funded charging stations in towns outside metropolitan areas to encourage EV adoption in less populated zones.
- Residential and Commercial Properties: Multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs), workplaces, and retail locations increasingly add destination chargers, catering to longer-duration parking needs.
Types of EV Chargers Available in Ontario
Ontario offers a broad spectrum of charging options tailored to different driver needs:
- Level 1 Charging:
Standard household plug (110V) providing slow charging rates (~8 km of range per hour). Mostly used for overnight home charging. - Level 2 Charging:
Most prevalent public and commercial plug type, typically delivering 7 kW to 22 kW. Suitable for shopping centers, workplaces, and multi-hour stops, offering ~35 km range per hour of charge. - Level 3 DC Fast Charging:
Ultra-fast chargers with power outputs of 50 kW to 350 kW, particularly at highway service centers and urban hubs. These stations can recharge an EV from empty to 80% in 30-45 minutes, perfect for on-the-go top-ups during travel. - Connector Compatibility:
The dominant standards are CCS and CHAdeMO for most vehicles; Tesla utilizes its proprietary connector but can access many public chargers with adapters. More chargers in Ontario are adding NACS connectors to accommodate expanding EV models.
Leading EV Charging Providers in Ontario
Ontario’s EV charging ecosystem includes prominent networks and emerging players:
- Ivy Charging Network:
Ontario’s largest fast-charger network, powered by Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation, with 28+ Level 3 stations and over 150 fast chargers, rapidly expanding coverage across ONroute locations and beyond. - Green P (Toronto Parking Authority):
Managing a municipally-owned network of Level 2 and fast chargers in Toronto, focusing on increasing accessibility and transitioning to NACS-compatible stations. - FLO:
Canada-wide EV network offering reliable chargers with high uptime, accessible via a robust app and supporting multiple connectors. - EV Connect & Plug’n Drive:
Operators offering extensive Level 2 charger deployments in workplaces, residential complexes, and public spaces. - On the RUN EV:
Ultra-fast chargers located along major Ontario routes offering up to 400 kW charging power with complimentary amenities, enhancing the driver experience.
Government Incentives and Programs
Ontario fosters EV infrastructure growth with several key initiatives:
- EV ChargeON Program:
Focused on increasing publicly accessible chargers in small and medium communities outside big cities. The program funds installations of Level 2 and Level 3 chargers, encouraging affordable and connected charging networks. - Funding Through Federal-Provincial Partnerships:
Federal programs complement provincial efforts, targeting 50,000 new chargers Canada-wide by 2030 with ample grants and rebates for businesses, municipalities, and homeowners. - Smart Grid and Tariff Innovations:
Utilities are developing electricity rates tailored to EV charging and incentivizing off-peak use to smooth grid impacts. - Condo and Apartment Charging:
Guidance and funding help multi-unit residential buildings install and operate EV charging systems, facilitating wider access in urban centers.
Charging Costs & Payment Methods
Ontario EV charging stations typically incur the following costs:
- Level 2 Chargers:
Pay-per-use rates averaging around $1.00 CAD per hour or $2.50 CAD per charging session, often found at destination chargers. - Level 3 DC Fast Chargers:
Costs charged by time used, averaging around $20 CAD per hour, reflecting higher power and demand.
Payments can usually be made via network apps (Ivy, FLO), RFID cards, or credit/debit cards at station terminals for ease and flexibility.
Benefits of Ontario’s EV Charging Network
- Widespread Accessibility: Ontario’s extensive network supports residents and travelers across urban and rural zones.
- Environmental Impact: Promotes greenhouse gas reductions and cleaner urban air quality.
- Economic Boost: Charging infrastructure attracts EV owners to retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
- Improved User Experience: Advanced apps and payment platforms streamline charging and route planning.
Practical Tips for EV Drivers in Ontario
- Use apps like PlugShare, ChargeHub, or Ivy’s own platform to locate chargers and check live availability.
- Plan highway trips around ONroute and Ivy fast-charger locations to minimize charging time.
- Carry compatible charging adapters to maximize access to diverse public chargers.
- Book workplace or home chargers via utility incentives to maximise convenience and cost-efficiency.
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Conclusion
Ontario’s EV charging network in 2025 is among the most developed and future-proof in Canada. With robust fast charger deployment, extensive Level 2 coverage, strong government incentives, and leading private-sector innovations, the province provides a comprehensive and accessible charging ecosystem for EV owners. As the industry expands, Ontario drivers can expect convenience, affordability, and sustainability to define their EV charging experiences, supporting a cleaner and greener transportation future.
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