What’s it all about exactly?

This refers to EV drivers who, for various reasons, cannot install their own charging station at home or one that is reserved exclusively for them. They tend to live in densely populated neighborhoods. It is estimated that in 2035, when internal combustion engine vehicles will no longer be sold, 25% of EV drivers will not have access to home charging. That’s why we are taking the time now to explore the possibility of creating neighborhood charging station islands.

A densely populated urban neighborhood is defined as any large concentration of apartments without private parking spaces, in particular old neighborhoods in cities such as Montréal or the city of Québec. Currently, the residents of these neighborhoods can charge their vehicles at curbside charging stations. However, those charging stations will not be enough by 2035, which is why we are looking for other solutions.

A standard charge requires a Level-2, 240-V charging station with a power of 7,2 kW. These charging stations are used at home, on the street (thanks to the public charging network) or at work. As much as 90% of charging needs are met at home and at work, which is why it’s important to find solutions for EV drivers without access to home charging.

The Electric Circuit is Hydro-Québec’s public charging network and currently the province’s largest and most reliable network of its kind. With over 120,000 members and more than 4,000 charging stations in service in Québec, the Electric Circuit was responsible for over 1 million charging sessions in 2022 alone. Electric Circuit members also enjoy an outstanding customer experience.

Neighborhood charging stations (Level-2 charging stations such as curbside stations), will be installed in the parking lots of the schools that are participating in the pilot project. Their use will be shared between school employees (during the day) and neighborhood residents (at night). A charging session can be started at those charging stations using the mobile app or the Electric Circuit member card. Remember: You need to be an Electric Circuit member to take part in the pilot project.