Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular across Ottawa, and it’s easy to see why. They’re quiet, fun to drive, and don’t need gas. But one big question remains: How much does it actually cost to charge an electric car in Ottawa?
Let’s break it down with real numbers and examples, so drivers know what to expect when switching from gas vehicles to EVs.
The Basics of EV Charging Costs
The cost of charging an electric car in Ottawa depends on a few things:
- Where you charge (home vs. public charging stations)
- Your battery size and driving range
- Local electricity costs
- The charging speed
For most EV drivers in Ottawa, home charging is the most cost-effective option. You plug in during off-peak hours and let your EV charger top up the battery pack while you sleep.
LB Electric helps homeowners across Ottawa install safe, fast EV chargers that are compatible with the local power grid and meet your daily charging needs.
What Does a Full Charge Cost?
Let’s say you drive about 16,000 km per year—like most Ontarians. On average, that works out to about 235 kWh of electricity per month. At 10–13 cents per kWh in Ottawa, that’s about $23–$31 per month on your bill.
That puts the annual energy cost for driving an EV between $276 and $372—significantly less than fueling a gas vehicle.
If your EV battery holds 60 kWh, a full charge at home would cost around $6 to $8 at home, far less than a tank of gasoline.
Public Charging: What to Know
Public charging can be a bit more expensive, but it’s convenient when you’re on the go. Some stations are free, but most EV charging spots charge by the hour or by kWh. Prices vary, but a full public charge typically ranges from $10 to $25, depending on the station and vehicle battery size.
Fast charging stations give you a quicker top-up but can cost more. The upside? You spend less time waiting.
LB Electric doesn’t just help with home charging—we also support charging station setups for businesses in Ottawa. Learn more about our electrical services for commercial spaces.
EV vs. Gas: The Savings Are Clear
For most drivers, charging an electric car is cheaper than running a gas-powered vehicle. Here’s a quick example:
| Fuel Type | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Annual Cost |
| Electric | $40–$60 | $500–$700 |
| Gas | $150–$300 | $1,800–$3,600 |
EVs use more electricity, but that power is still cheaper and more efficient than gas. Plus, you won’t have to visit a gas station every week.
Other Things That Affect Cost
- Charging speed: Faster chargers cost more to use
- Battery size: Bigger batteries need more power to charge
- Daily driving needs: City drivers may fully charge less often
- Installation: A home EV charger requires licensed professional installation to meet electrical codes
If you’re thinking about adding a home charging station, LB Electric in Ottawa can help you pick the right one and install it safely.
FAQs
What’s the typical cost to fully charge an electric car in Ottawa?
The average cost is between $6 and $12 at home, depending on your battery pack size and local electricity rates.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at Petro Canada?
Petro Canada’s fast charging stations usually cost around $0.50 per minute with no connection or idling fees. A full charge might cost between $12 and $15, depending on the vehicle and how much energy is needed.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at Canadian Tire?
Many Canadian Tire locations use the IVY charging network. Prices range by location, but you might pay up to $2.50 per hour or by kWh.
How much would it cost to fully charge an electric car?
It often costs $2–$10 to charge at home. Depending on the charging speed and charger type, the cost could be up to $30 at a public charging station.
Power Up at Home with LB Electric
So, how much does it cost to charge an electric car in Ottawa? The short answer: much less than driving gas vehicles. EVs are cheaper to operate, easier on the grid, and perfect for your daily driving needs.
Thinking about getting an EV charger installed? LB Electric is proud to help Ottawa drivers make the switch to clean, affordable energy.
Contact LB Electric today for expert guidance on installing a home or commercial EV charging station.
