Installing charging stations for electric vehicles is not that simple. Some projects can obtain a grant and be connected to the grid, but there are steps to follow and criteria to meet. This guide explains how municipalities and Indigenous communities can submit their application, choose the right location, and manage costs. We will look together at what you need to know before getting started, to avoid unpleasant surprises and maximise the chances of approval.
Key points to remember
- Only municipalities and Indigenous communities connected to the Hydro-Québec grid can submit an application for certain projects.
- Eligible stations are of the SmartTwo or dual on-street type, with a minimum of two stations per site or one double on-street station.
- You must provide a complete application: form, budget, plans and ideally, an internal letter of approval.
- The purchase and installation costs are partially subsidised, but some expenses, such as maintenance or management, remain the applicant’s responsibility.
- A five-year commitment for the maintenance and availability of the stations is required; otherwise, part of the grant must be repaid.
Eligibility of municipalities and Indigenous communities
Conditions for accessing the grant programme
The grant programme is aimed exclusively at municipalities and Indigenous communities established in Quebec and already connected to the Hydro-Québec grid. Several specific requirements must be met to access financial assistance:
- Clearly demonstrate ownership and management of the site where the stations will be installed.
- Provide a complete application form, together with a projected budget, a plan of the intended locations for the stations, and ideally an official letter of approval (strongly recommended).
- Submit only one application per year, with the possibility of resubmission if the first is refused, provided the project is adjusted.
- Respect the submission deadlines. For example, for 2025, all applications must be sent before 11:59 p.m., 26 March.
Application approval is never automatic. Any incomplete application is systematically rejected without detailed review.
Find out how to properly prepare for connection to the electricity grid by consulting the information on adapting administrative procedures.
Details on connection to the Hydro-Québec grid
Connection to the public grid is a condition for file eligibility. Only entities already connected to the standard distribution grid—i.e., managed by Hydro-Québec—can submit a project. This ensures installations harmonisation and guarantees technical compatibility with collective infrastructures.
The main obligations to follow are:
- The designated site must already receive electricity supply from Hydro-Québec.
- You must plan a feasibility study for the connection (at the project proponent’s expense).
- Work with recognised and certified electricians for all installation and connection work.
Restriction concerning businesses and institutions
Only municipalities and Indigenous communities can apply for the grant programme:
- Private companies (start-ups, SMEs, large corporations) are not eligible.
- Public institutions outside a municipal or Indigenous context (hospitals, schools, CEGEPs, universities, etc.) are also excluded from funding.
- No community or non-profit organisation other than those explicitly representing the community is accepted.
Summary table of eligibility:
| Applicant category | Eligible |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Quebec | Yes |
| Indigenous community of Quebec | Yes |
| Private company | No |
| Public institution (outside municipal/Indigenous context) | No |
Remember: only local actors meeting these criteria can register. There are no exceptions, whatever the location or mission of the company/institution.
Definition of projects eligible for a grant
The grant programme concerns only specific models. Only SmartTwo stations with the cable retraction system and dual on-street stations are accepted. The SmartTwo model is designed for car parks: it is a simple station, easy to spot and equipped with a device preventing cables from dragging on the ground. The dual on-street station, meanwhile, stands out for its two 240V charging points, mounted on a central pole and visible from the public highway. This limited choice ensures compatibility and coordinated maintenance at the municipal level. In the Quebec context, these station levels meet Hydro-Québec’s requirements for effective coverage of the territory.
Before submitting an application, it is advisable to check which stations are on the official list; any unrecognised equipment is not reimbursable, even if already purchased.
Minimum number of stations per site
A key eligibility criterion: each project must provide for the installation of at least two single stations (SmartTwo) or one double on-street station in each selected car park. The programme avoids spreading installations too thin and encourages sites that have a real impact on access to charging. For on-pavement installations, each project must include at least one dual on-street station.
Summary of requirements:
| Site type | Minimum required stations |
|---|---|
| Car park | 2 SmartTwo stations or 1 double station |
| Kerbside/public road | 1 dual on-street station |
Preferred locations for installation
Certain locations are particularly targeted as they directly meet the programme objectives. These are mainly:
- Municipal car parks visible from the road;
- Car parks in Indigenous communities open to the public;
- Kerbside in densely populated neighbourhoods, where residents have no private socket;
- Near parks, tourist sites or commercial areas linked to the municipality.
Projects locating stations in these areas increase their chances of being approved. Installing them near existing electricity networks also reduces costs, which can make financial approval easier. For more ideas on funding or managing innovative projects in other contexts, see information on the Research Tax Credit.
It’s not just the type or number of stations that matters but also the chosen location: strategic places provide real service, both for residents and visitors.
Objectives of the charging station programme
The Hydro-Québec grant programme for installing charging stations meets several concrete needs for electric mobility in Quebec. The main goal? To increase public access to rapid charging for electric vehicles, while encouraging practices that reduce dependence on fossil fuels in urban and residential areas.
Improving provision in dense areas
A recurring observation in the roll-out of electric vehicles: some densely populated districts lack accessible charging options. The programme specifically targets these areas, supporting municipalities and Indigenous communities to add stations where demand is strong and supply limited.
- Increase the number of stations to ease pressure on existing ones.
- Target streets, public car parks and throughways with the highest vehicle density.
- Ensure stations are located where residents do not have a private socket.
Supporting electric mobility in city centres
Electric mobility struggles to take root in city centres without suitable infrastructure. The programme aims to address this shortfall by funding installations in strategic locations—near shops, offices and cultural or tourist activities. City centre car parks thus become vital to democratising electromobility.
Supporting a dense network in the heart of the city not only makes daily life easier for electric vehicle owners but also attracts new users who are still hesitating.
Enabling access in neighbourhoods without private sockets
For many residents of multi-unit buildings, owning an electric vehicle remains complicated, due to the lack of home charging solutions. The programme therefore focuses on:
- Installing stations in streets or collective car parks in the immediate vicinity of homes.
- Prioritising areas where apartments or condos predominate.
- Ensuring 24-hour access to this equipment, regardless of the urban configuration.
All this forms part of a wider drive to encourage the energy transition, similar to other initiatives such as support for installing clean energy solutions in certain regions. This network of objectives helps establish a coherent and equitable public charging offering across the territory.
Technical criteria for station installation
Compliance with electrical and environmental standards
The installation of charging stations must always start with an assessment of compliance with current electrical standards, notably those of Hydro-Québec and local environmental requirements. Calling in a master electrician is mandatory for all network connection works. They will ensure the equipment installed is certified and the site offers the required safety guarantees. For the addition of ancillary systems, such as a decoupling relay for photovoltaics, the installation must comply with the latest regulations, such as standard NF EN 50549. For more on this equipment, the photovoltaic decoupling relay is essential for compliance.
Visibility from the public highway
The visibility of charging stations is a technical criterion often underestimated yet fundamental for user access.
- The equipment must be installed so as to be easily spotted from the street.
- Preferred locations are those near the entrance to public car parks, pavements or busy roads.
- Standard signage must be provided, for both day and night. This makes identification easier and reduces confusion for drivers seeking charging points.
A highly visible station attracts more use and enhances municipal investment in the long term.
24-hour accessibility
To be eligible for funding, a station must remain accessible to the public without time restrictions. This implies:
- Continuous access, with no barriers or specific entry conditions.
- No physical obstacles in front of the station (walls, street furniture, etc.).
- Adequate lighting to enable use and ensure user safety at night.
Ensuring continuous availability guarantees better profitability and meets modern expectations for urban electric mobility. Above all, make sure the chosen site minimises constraints: close to a power connection point, little shading and possible year-round maintenance, as with a successful solar project.
| Criterion | Minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| Compliance with standards | Complies with Quebec electrical code |
| Visibility | Roadside signage, strong lighting |
| Accessibility | Open 24/7, permanent public access |
In summary, neglecting installation specifics multiplies the risks of delays at commissioning and jeopardises the durability of the grant.
Application and review process
Submitting a grant application for the installation of charging stations requires preparation, rigour and good management of timescales. Several steps must be taken to maximise the chances of the project’s approval.
Assembling the grant application
The first step is to put together a complete application. An incomplete application will always result in rejection. So you must gather all required documents before submission:
- Fully completed application form, precise and without omissions
- Projected budget—including costs and projected revenue linked to the project
- Preliminary plan for installing the stations on the site(s)
- Official letter of approval from the decision-making authority (optional, but recommended)
Missing or incorrect information may slow or block assessment. For projects with a tight deadline, it is advised to check that at least six months remain before the deadline, as mentioned in the FEDER/FSE+ programme terms.
Schedule and application periods
Meeting deadlines is essential. Here is a summary table of recent and expected periods:
| Year | Submission deadline |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 26 March at 23:59 |
| 2026 | To be announced |
The confirmation of submission is sent by email – this is the official proof to keep. Any request received after the stated date will be automatically rejected.
Review and final decision by Hydro-Québec
After the close of the submission period, Hydro-Québec reviews the applications:
- Verification that the application is complete
- Pre-selection of projects meeting criteria and priorities
- Final decision communicated within a month of the deadline
Selected projects receive a conditional approval letter, giving access to the grant upon presentation of purchase and installation invoices for the stations.
It is recommended to anticipate administrative timescales and ensure a quality application to avoid any unexpected delay or refusal.
For those familiar with similar programmes, the process is similar to that of CTC member organisations and their six major funding application steps. This can help structure the approach effectively.
Budget constraints and cost estimation
Rigorous budget management is one of the pillars of any charging station project. For municipalities or Indigenous communities, it is necessary to anticipate all, often unavoidable, costs to avoid any unexpected overspending.
Expenses eligible for the grant
The grant covers a specific portion of expenses, but there are strict limits not to ignore. Generally eligible expenses include:
- Purchase of approved charging stations (precise types imposed by the programme)
- Installation (labour, wiring, minor civil engineering work)
- Initial signage and ground marking
The table below summarises the maximum amounts allowed in 2025:
| Station type | Maximum subsidised amount (pre-tax) |
|---|---|
| Single SmartTwo | $12,735 |
| Double on-street station | $25,470 |
Invoices must be sent after installation for the grant to be awarded, but any overspend remains the project proponent’s responsibility.
Assessment of purchase and installation costs
A full assessment necessarily involves getting several quotes. Installation costs vary greatly depending on the location’s configuration: proximity to the electricity grid, need to excavate the pavement, or the condition of the existing infrastructure.
Some factors affecting the total:
- Distance between the power connection and the station
- Nature of excavation or repair work
- Accessibility and safety constraints imposed locally
- Choice of approved equipment (some options are more expensive)
It is recommended to get an estimate from a master electrician at the planning stage. To manage project finances effectively, see the principles of cost and budget minimisation.
Management of additional costs to consider
Some expenses are excluded from the grant but remain essential. These include:
- Annual management, administration and connectivity costs for the stations
- Maintenance, any necessary repairs (even over the five-year commitment)
- Snow clearance and winter accessibility
- Insurance and recurring regulatory checks
Careful attention must be paid to these ongoing costs as they ensure the durability and reliability of the installations.
Forgetting to plan for additional costs can render a project unviable in the long run, despite an attractive grant.
Post-grant commitments of recipients
After benefiting from the grant for installing charging stations, municipalities and Indigenous communities must comply with several obligations. This not only ensures long-term project success but also protects public financing.
Maintaining operation for five years
Each subsidised station must remain in service for at least five years from the date it becomes operational. This commitment means the municipality or community is responsible for the correct functioning and availability of the equipment for the public. In case of early withdrawal, part of the subsidy must be repaid, calculated pro-rata for the remaining time.
The stability of these installations is key to reassuring users and ensuring a reliable public network over time.
Handling maintenance and repairs
Keeping the stations in optimal condition requires regular organisation of maintenance and technical monitoring. Responsibilities include:
- Setting up a preventive maintenance schedule.
- Winter snow clearing and cleaning of parking areas around stations.
- Covering the cost of repairs and technical interventions, not included in the grant.
A recurring budget for these operations must be anticipated, as they are often overlooked in initial planning.
| Maintenance task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Snow removal | Seasonal |
| Technical inspection | Quarterly |
| Panel replacement | As required |
Partial repayment in case of early withdrawal
If a station must be removed before the end of the five-year commitment period, the relevant community must repay part of the grant, based on the proportion of the period not fulfilled. This rule encourages careful consideration before any discontinuation, so as not to undermine the local budget or confidence in public investments.
To optimise the benefits of the grant, some managers include a cost and obligation estimate in their application, similar to how photovoltaic project proponents select a reliable service provider during a structured tender.
In short, the lasting success of the project largely depends on meeting these simple but demanding commitments, considered right from the planning stage.
Procedure for connecting to the electricity grid
The installation of charging stations for electric vehicles is only truly complete once they are connected to the grid. Particular care must be taken at every stage to avoid delays or additional costs.
Preparation of plans and feasibility studies
To begin, you must prepare detailed plans taking into account the site’s immediate environment. Key elements of this phase:
- Conduct a technical feasibility study, identifying access to an appropriate power source.
- Prioritise proximity to an existing distribution board or junction box to make connection simpler and more cost-effective.
- Include a detailed estimate of installation and connection costs (example: civil engineering expenses, purchase of additional equipment).
A careful initial study limits risks during project execution, and ensures smooth integration of new installations in the urban space.
Working with certified master electricians
It is mandatory to entrust electrical works to a duly certified master electrician. Effective collaboration with this professional ensures compliance and safety of the installations:
- Provide plans to the master electrician for validation of feasibility and to request an estimate.
- Coordinate the various stages of the build (e.g.: excavation works, internal or external connection, depending on whether it is SmartTwo or on-street stations).
- Final verification of connection compliance before switching on.
The differences in connection, such as between a public car park site and a station connected directly to the grid, are explained on the small power connection procedure.
Submitting the connection request
After technical preparation, you only need to complete the official connection request to Hydro-Québec:
- Gather all necessary documents: estimate, feasibility studies and detailed plans, master electrician agreement.
- Fill out the dedicated online form and attach all supporting documents.
- Track your application via the online portal or by direct communication with the connection team.
Once the connection has been approved, a joint intervention may be required for final activation, whether on low or medium voltage, as specified by Hydro-Québec and according to regulatory changes for collective projects, as detailed in the regulation on collective self-consumption operations connection.
Every stage of the process must be carried out correctly to avoid delays in launching the stations.
Financing methods and grant ceilings
Installing charging stations represents a significant investment for municipalities and Indigenous communities. The grant programme aims to ease this financial burden. Any approved project receives assistance calculated by the type and number of stations installed, and must respect the ceilings set each year. Payment methods, invoice submission and the obligation to use an official supplier govern the entire process.
Maximum allocation per station type
The eligible amount varies according to the chosen model and location. Here is a summary table of valid ceilings for 2025:
| Station type | Maximum eligible amount (pre-tax) |
|---|---|
| Single SmartTwo station (car park) | $12,735 |
| Double on-street station (kerbside) | $25,470 |
For the following year, a slight increase may apply (up to $12,990 per single station depending on programme renewal). Expenditure above these limits remains the responsibility of the project sponsor, similar to how MaPrimeRénov’ Copropriété works.
Payment subject to invoice submission
Payment of the grant requires submission of the following documents:
- Detailed invoices for purchase and installation issued by the designated supplier;
- Proof the stations are operational within the prescribed timeframe (twelve months after approval);
- Compliance with visibility and accessibility requirements.
Only invoices for eligible expenses will be considered.
A grant is paid only after full validation of documents and on-site compliance check by Hydro-Québec.
Rules for using an approved supplier
To ensure compatibility and reliability of the network, the project must:
- Source exclusively from a supplier approved by the Electric Circuit;
- Respect the list of approved station models in the programme;
- Ensure installation is supervised by accredited master electricians.
In 2026, due to the transition between suppliers, the tender process may alter the list of available models. Always check the current year’s policy before ordering.
The payment process is generally in several stages, usually after final installation, on presentation of invoices and technical supporting documents. This approach echoes the strict process of Enedis connection to guarantee transparency and project safety.
Obligations for signage and site safety
Setting up appropriate signage
The presence of clear and consistent signage at each site is a non-negotiable requirement. Parking areas reserved for charging must be identified by specific signs indicating « Parking reserved for electric vehicles recharging ». This reduces confusion and prevents non-electric vehicles from occupying spaces inappropriately.
Points to note:
- Use signs that comply with municipal standards
- Place signs at a visible height and in direct proximity to the stations
- Apply ground markings to complement vertical signage
Installing suitable signage encourages compliance with dedicated spaces and improves traffic flow around stations.
Traffic and parking management
Ensuring the safety of station users while minimising inconvenience for all motorists is vital. Practical measures should be planned in advance:
- Clearly define access routes to the stations, without obstructing general traffic
- Avoid siting a cycle lane between the stations and the charging spaces, to minimise risk of user conflict
- Favour areas close to power connection points, to reduce cluttered infrastructure
A summary table can help structure responsibilities:
| Task | Responsible party | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Signage inspection | Municipality | Annual |
| Ground marking maintenance | Local community | Seasonal |
| Access updates | Municipality | When required |
Compliance monitoring with local regulations
Installations must also meet regulatory expectations. This involves:
- Respecting required distances between stations and pedestrian or cycle accesses
- Complying with regulations for installed equipment, both at the electrical and passive safety level
- Taking account of the standards in each municipality’s rules
It is crucial to consult reliable sources, including regulatory texts or resources such as information on the refurbishment rate, to anticipate costs and avoid unwelcome surprises after installation.
Maintaining safety and compliance also means staying alert to regulatory changes and carrying out regular on-site inspections.
Management and optimisation of station maintenance
The management and optimisation of charging station maintenance requires careful planning. The longevity and reliability of the service rely on thorough planning and long-term commitment from all stakeholders. Here’s how to approach this part of the programme.
Ensure winter and routine maintenance
Regular, season-appropriate maintenance is essential to keep stations in good condition—especially in winter when extra care is needed:
- Clear snow from access and around stations to ensure continued use.
- Remove any obstacles or debris likely to hinder access, even outside freezing periods.
- Check the condition of the cable retraction systems and replace any worn or damaged parts.
In the cold season, advance planning for snow clearance helps avoid inconvenient service interruptions for users.
Covering annual management costs
Each year site managers are responsible for the recurring management costs for the stations. These expenses are generally non-negotiable and must be budgeted for from installation:
| Expense type | Example estimated cost (annual) |
|---|---|
| Maintenance service contract | $300 to $700 per station |
| Station communication costs (cellular, web) | $120 to $250 per station |
| Administrative management fees | $100 to $200 per site |
Accurate monitoring of these expenses makes medium-term planning easier and reduces the impact of unforeseen budget events.
Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule
To optimise infrastructure availability in the long term, it is recommended to formalise a preventive maintenance plan, including:
- Quarterly inspections to detect signs of wear or vandalism.
- Systematic cleaning of equipment and immediate surroundings, twice yearly.
- Periodic checks of the connection system and communication gateway (see the importance of connected systems in charging station technology).
- Annual electrical system inspection with a certified master electrician.
Regular performance indicator monitoring reduces the risk of prolonged breakdown and extends the lifespan of the stations.
In short, incorporating maintenance into routine management of the charging site is not just an obligation, but also a driver for efficiency and satisfaction for users and the community.
Site selection for profitability
Advantages of proximity to electrical infrastructure
Thinking about profitability starts by choosing locations where connecting to existing infrastructure is straightforward and direct. Installing stations near an already accessible power source, such as a junction box or distribution board, instantly reduces installation costs. It limits civil engineering work, simplifies the build and shortens timescales.
Points to consider when choosing a site:
- Prioritise public car parks already equipped with electricity
- Avoid sites requiring major excavation
- Opt for sites without problematic underground infrastructure
Smart planning of the connection can make the difference between a profitable project or not. It is vital to analyse hidden costs before taking any administrative steps.
You can also explore the importance of rapid connection for competitiveness in industrial policy.
Optimising urban coverage in public car parks
Urban coverage aims to provide even coverage, especially in high-footfall places like municipal car parks. The idea is to place stations where demand already exists or is growing. Good coverage makes the investment worthwhile in the long term.
Example selection criteria for optimising coverage:
| Criterion | Weight in decision |
|---|---|
| Proximity to businesses | 40% |
| Daily vehicle flow | 30% |
| Ease of connection | 20% |
| Visibility from the street | 10% |
A dense network increases the stations’ visibility and usage, avoiding days when they go unused.
User attractiveness criteria
Aside from technical or economic questions, the user experience matters. To make installation cost-effective, stations must be used regularly. The best locations are those where:
- Vehicles are parked long enough for a full charge (e.g. city centre car park, near a park)
- Access and payment are simple
- Signage is clear and visible
The importance of user safety should not be forgotten, especially at night or during winter—good lighting and ongoing maintenance are key criteria. In cold seasons, effective winter maintenance is vital to keep access open and reassure users, as explained in recent pricing and selection contexts.
Taking the time to anticipate user needs and local realities often makes the difference for achieving a balance between investment and actual usage.
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Conclusion
To conclude, it is clear that selection of projects for funding and connection of charging stations is based on strict criteria. Municipalities and Indigenous communities wishing to participate must thoroughly prepare their application, collect all requested documents, and meet deadlines. Even if the process may seem lengthy, it ensures that approved projects really meet local needs and are achievable. Submitting an application is not enough: you must also demonstrate project feasibility and commit to meeting the programme’s conditions. By following these steps, communities increase their chances of being accepted and of contributing to the growth of electric mobility in Quebec.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for a grant to install charging stations?
Only municipalities and Indigenous communities in Quebec that are connected to the Hydro-Québec grid can apply for a grant. Businesses and institutions are not eligible.
How many grant applications can be made per year?
Only one grant application is accepted per municipality or community per year. If a first application is refused, a second can be submitted in the same year, provided it meets the criteria.
What types of charging stations are funded by the programme?
The programme only funds SmartTwo stations with a cable retraction system and dual on-street stations. These stations must meet certain standards and be installed at specific locations.
What costs are covered by the grant?
The grant covers part of the purchase and installation costs for the stations. Management, maintenance and certain specialised works are not included and must be paid for by the municipality or community.
How does the project selection process work?
After sending the complete application before the deadline, Hydro-Québec reviews each submission. Successful projects receive a conditional approval letter. Grants are paid after invoices are submitted.
What are the obligations after receiving the grant?
The municipality or community must maintain the stations in good working order and publicly accessible for at least five years. They must also handle maintenance, snow clearance and pay all annual management fees.
What should be done if a station must be removed before five years?
If a station is removed before the end of the commitment period, the municipality or community will have to repay part of the grant, according to the time remaining.
What are the criteria for choosing charging station locations?
Stations must be installed in visible locations accessible 24/7, such as public car parks or streets near shops, parks or districts without private sockets.
