As everyone becomes more conscious about the impacts of climate change, some of you are also investing in electric vehicles (EV) to reduce your carbon footprint and save money. While you may be able to cruise by the local gas station without stopping to fill up, you will need a way to charge your vehicle at home and on the road.
Elexicon Energy wants to help customers make the transition to EVs a smooth one. Elexicon Energy’s parent company, Elexicon Corporation has already installed 24 electric vehicle charging ports across our service territories with an additional 1,883 to be installed across the country in 2022.
We are also working with Durham Greener Homes, who provide residents with resources on how to live a greener life, including steps for installing EV chargers in homes. For more information visit: https://durhamgreenerhomes.ca/retrofits/ev-chargers
According to Durham Greener Homes, while Level 1 EV chargers can use a standard 120V wall outlet, this may not provide enough power to charge your vehicle in a timely manner. Level 2 EV chargers require a 240V wall outlet, like those used for clothes dryers, in which case you may need to upgrade your electrical panel prior to installing an EV charger. If you need an upgrade, contact Elexicon at dservices@elexiconenergy.com
Once you’ve upgraded your electrical panel and you’re ready to install your EV charger you’ll need to hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor to do the work. This will ensure the installation is compliant with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. It is your contractor’s responsibility to obtain a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) before starting the installation.
When choosing an EV charger, be sure it is certified for use in Canada by a nationally recognized certification agency. Look for CSA, cUL, cETL or other ESA-approved certification marks.