Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to reshape Canada’s transportation landscape. With no tailpipe emissions, EVs offer a clean alternative to gasoline-powered cars, and many new homeowners in Calgary are installing home-charging systems and upgrading their electrical panels in anticipation. But understanding the current incentives can be tricky—some programs have changed or paused, and each province offers different benefits.

Federal Incentives: What’s Available Now

At the federal level, the Incentives for Zero‑Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program used to offer up to **$5,000** off eligible new battery-electric vehicles or long-range plug-in hybrids. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} However, this program has been paused as of **January 12, 2025**, because the available funds were fully committed. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

For businesses, an enhanced first-year capital cost allowance (CCA) remains available for qualifying zero-emission vehicles, enabling larger tax write-offs on purchases. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Bottom line for homeowners: the federal rebate for new personal EVs is currently not available, so check dealership eligibility and any future announcements before planning your purchase.

Provincial and Local Incentives Still in Play

Even though the federal rebate is paused, several provinces still offer incentives, particularly for EV charging infrastructure and home installations. For example:

• In British Columbia, rebates are available for home Level 2 charger installs—up to **50% of cost**, to a maximum of about **$2,000** per charger. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Other provinces provide varying incentives for EV purchases or used EVs, but amounts and eligibility vary widely. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

If you are in Alberta or Calgary, it’s especially important to **check provincial incentive programs** (or lack thereof), and focus your planning on home-charging and panel or service upgrades rather than relying on a federal EV purchase rebate.

Other EV Benefits Beyond Rebates

Even without a major purchase rebate right now, EVs bring several long-term advantages:

• **Lower running costs**: Electricity is generally cheaper and more stable in price than gasoline, and EVs have fewer moving parts to maintain.
• **Reduced maintenance**: No oil changes, fewer filters, and less wear on braking systems thanks to regenerative braking.
• **Home charging readiness**: Installing a dedicated charger at your home not only adds convenience, but also sets you up for future energy upgrades like solar or battery backup.

Preparing Your Home for an EV in Calgary

If you’re planning to install a home charger or switch to an EV in Calgary, consider taking these steps:

1. Upgrade your electrical panel or service if your home has an older system (e.g., 60 amp service) that may not safely support a charger. See our service upgrade page.
2. Install a Level 2 home charger and look for provincial rebates or incentives for charger infrastructure.
3. Pair your charger with a solar system or energy-efficient panel upgrade to maximize long-term savings.
4. Stay informed on incentive programs—federal and provincial rules may change, so make decisions based on current eligibility, not just past benefits.

Contact Us for Your EV Charger and Panel Upgrade

At Panel Upgrade Experts, we have been helping Calgary homeowners since 2013 get their homes ready for electric vehicles. We offer licensed installation of EV chargers, electrical panel upgrades, and service upgrades—all designed to integrate smoothly with your future-ready home. Contact us today to discuss how to prepare your home for the switch to electric driving.