Can I install an EV charger in my garage or outdoors?
Yes, the charger can be installed both indoors and outdoors depending on your preference.
Electric Vehicle Smart Charging Program
Investing in our future: Electric Vehicle Smart Charging program
As a Canadian leader in reducing carbon emissions, we are working on new ways to bring more clean energy to our grid. To add even more renewables and further improve efficiencies, we need to be even more innovative—which is where the Smart Grid Nova Scotia program comes in. In a smart grid, individual pieces of the electrical system communicate with one another, so the entire electrical system can use energy more efficiently and reliably.
Electric vehicle (EV) smart chargers are one critical piece of our future smart grid infrastructure. And we want to learn more about how EV smart chargers can help make a difference. It’s why we’re inviting eligible Nova Scotians to apply to install a ChargePoint® Home Flex EV smart charging system.
Benefits
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By participating in our pilot program and upgrading to a ChargePoint Home Flex EV smart charging system, you can benefit your home and the entire power system.
Save money - Receive an incentive of up to $500.
Green energy - You’ll be helping us make the most of the renewable power we generate.
Control - The charger’s mobile app gives you convenient access to all charger features.
Faster charging - This Level 2 smart charger provides efficient charging for your EV.
Confidence - Your charger will be safely installed by a trained, authorized contractor.
How the program works
The Smart Grid Nova Scotia program will help us determine our ability to lower power usage by electric vehicle chargers during peak times. By shifting demand to off-peak times (overnight, for example), we can reduce the overall demand on the electrical system, use greener energy, and ultimately lower electricity costs to Nova Scotians.
To help reduce peak load, you will be asked to provide our team with control of the charging cycles of your EV smart charging system. By allowing us to limit charging during peak times, it’s one way you’ll help us learn how to make the most of our system capacity. We value your feedback, so we’ll be asking for participants’ feedback throughout the pilot.
Your EV will get charged as it needs to—quickly. And the electrical system all Nova Scotians rely on will be used more efficiently and sustainably.
Installing and using the ChargePoint Home Flex EV smart charging system
Our network of certified electricians across the province are specially trained to install your EV smart charging system safely. If your application is approved, we’ll be in touch to schedule a home visit with an installer within 30 days. The installation takes one day, and there is a one-time fee of $350.
Your smart charging system can be installed indoors, like in a garage, or outdoors. The best location allows the charging cable to reach the car’s charging port while still providing some slack. The smart charging station should be mounted to a secure spot, like a stud, and there must be strong WiFi available. The installing contractor will help you choose the optimal location.
The ChargePoint Home Flex can add up to 60 kilometers of Range Per Hour (RPH) to your EV. This 240-volt Level 2 smart charger delivers up to 50 amps of power, but most drivers will use 32 or 40 amps. Once installed, use the ChargePoint app to get reminders to plug in, track all your charging, and find places to charge when you’re away from home.
Apply Today
Ready to add an EV smart charging system to your home, and help us transition to even more renewable energy? Complete our online application to see if you’re eligible to participate. We have a limited number of smart chargers available for this pilot program and will contact you within two weeks to update you on the status of your application.
Before completing this form, please ensure that you have read all the material provided including the FAQs below and Customer Agreement Form to make sure this program is right for you. There will be a one-time $350 installation fee for customers that are selected to be part of the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I install my EV charger?
The ChargePoint Home Flex comes with a 23-foot charging cable and is easy for an electrician to install indoors or outdoors. Our contractor will help you choose the best location for your needs, including parking, electrical infrastructure and strong WiFi connectivity.
Where can I learn more about the ChargePoint Home Flex?
You can learn more about the ChargePoint Home Flex on our Product 101 Page, here.
Is there a cost to participate?
Yes, there is an upfront charge of $350 to participate in the program.
What does control of charging cycles mean?
We are able to communicate with your ChargePoint Home Flex and control the rate of charging through your home WiFi connection. As you participate in these charging cycles, you will receive an incentive that gets added directly to your power bill.
Can I pay for the upfront charger through my power bill?
Yes. The upfront $350 charge will appear on your electricity bill following the installation and connection to your WiFi network.
How do I receive my annual incentives?
Your annual incentive credits will be added directly to your electricity bill.
Can I participate if I am on the time-of-day (TOD) rate?
Yes. Time-of-day customers are able to participate in the program provided they meet other program eligibility requirements, however, charging cycles may take place during peak pricing times as we work to reduce the overall demand on the grid.
If I already have a Level 2 EV smart charger, can I still participate in the program?
Yes. However, you must use the ChargePoint Home Flex for your primary charging needs.
Can I participate in the program if I live in an apartment or condo?
Yes. Customers living in apartments or condos can take part if they meet eligibility requirements.
What if I no longer want to participate before the program ends?
You can choose to leave the program before the pilot ends however, there will be fees associated with this option which are outlines in the Electric Vehicle Smart Charger Participation Agreement.
What happens if I move during the program?
If you need to move during the program, you will be responsible for all costs associated with moving the equipment to a new location or ensuring the new homeowner takes over any and all responsibilities relating to the equipment for the remainder of the term, including executing a new agreement. For details, please review the Electric Vehicle Smart Charger Participation Agreement.
What happens after I apply?
We will review your application and get back to you within 14 days of your submission. If you are approved, you will be contacted to schedule a home assessment with an authorized contractor.
Can I install the ChargePoint Home Flex myself?
No. The charger must be installed by our network of authorized contractors.
Is my ChargePoint Home Flex required to be connected to WiFi at all times?
Yes. As we work to shift demand to off-peak times to help reduce overall load, you will be required to maintain a reliable connection over WiFi. For details, please review the Electric Vehicle Smart Charger Participation Agreement.
Contact Us
Have questions about about the Smart Grid program or products? Contact our team to learn more.
Contact Information
Smart Grid Nova Scotia is comprised of customer programs that will be rolled out over the coming months. You may be eligible for all programs, but will need to apply for each product as they become available.