EV Charging Readiness Requirement for New Commercial, Institutional and Industrial Buildings

As of January 1, 2025, for new buildings (except hotels) that contain at least 100 square meters of non-residential floor area (such as commercial, institutional, and industrial uses) 50% of provided off-street parking spaces must be EV Ready. EV Ready means providing an electrical outlet at the parking space capable of providing Level 2 EV Charging. Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), also known as EV chargers, are not required to be installed, however, they are encouraged.

For hotels, 100% of provided off-street parking spaces must be EV Ready as their use is considered more residential in nature.

EV Charging at non-residential buildings helps those who cannot charge at home. Level 2 chargers that allow for load-sharing between vehicles are suitable for workers who will be parked at a building for a longer duration, while dedicated, non-load shared Level 2 chargers are envisioned for visitors who spend less time at a building.

EV-Ready construction futureproofs parking lots by installing electrical infrastructure at the most cost-effective point in a building’s life cycle, avoiding expensive retrofits in the future, and allowing employers and building managers to install EV chargers as demand from workers grows.

These requirements were adopted by City Council on November 18, 2024. Please view the City’s updated Zoning Bylaw, Section 100 to learn more about the EV Ready requirements for new, non-residential buildings in New Westminster.