Electric vehicle fast charging pilot program

We’re launching an innovative new pilot program that gives local electric vehicle (EV) charging providers direct access to 480-volt transformer service. This eliminates the need for customer-owned step-down transformers, simplifies grid connections and makes it faster and easier to expand public direct current (DC) fast charging stations in Toronto.

If you’re planning a public DC fast charging project, this pilot can help lower project costs, speed up construction and energization timelines and free up room for additional chargers or amenities.

Overview

Today, most DC fast chargers operate at 480 volts, while utility-owned transformers, including Toronto Hydro’s, typically run at 600 volts. This can result in customers needing to buy, install and maintain step-down transformers to access the required lower voltage. As a result, these projects can face:

• Additional equipment and construction costs
• More complex designs and longer timelines
• Less usable space
• Ongoing responsibility for step-down transformer maintenance

These hurdles can slow EV charger deployment. This pilot helps remove barriers by delivering 480-volt service directly — eliminating the need for customer-owned step-down transformers.

Leading the charge🔌
Toronto Hydro is one of the only utilities in Ontario to offer 480-volt service specifically for DC fast charging — helping bring more public fast charging to Torontonians sooner.

The following diagram illustrates how utility-owned 480-volt transformers streamline the EV fast charging connection process:

How it works

Skip the step-down transformer — and the additional steps that come with it. Through this pilot program:

• Up to 10 local projects will receive direct access to 1.5 MVA, 480-volt alternating current (AC) transformers, delivering the voltage DC fast chargers are designed to use — straight from the distribution grid
• Customers will be responsible for the costs associated with the 480-volt transformer, including installation and connection charges
• Toronto Hydro will retain ownership of these 480-volt transformers and be responsible for ongoing maintenance

The pilot is expected to run through the end of 2027. Throughout this period, we’ll monitor performance, compatibility and system impacts to help shape future standards and service offerings.

Here’s how you can benefit

Delivering 480 volts directly eliminates the need for customer-owned step-down transformers and helps:

• Lower project costs: No additional transformer purchase, installation or maintenance required
• Speed up construction and energization: Fewer steps mean faster timelines and quicker connection
• Reduce space requirements: A smaller electrical footprint frees up room for additional chargers or amenities
• Match equipment design: Aligns with DC fast chargers built to operate at 480 volts

Program eligibility

Access is limited. Up to 10 local projects can take advantage of this direct connection through the pilot. Projects must:

• Include DC fast chargers
• Be located outside of the downtown core in areas served by 27.6/16 kV primary voltage configuration

The following diagram shows the eligible areas, highlighted in yellow and labelled the “horseshoe”:

Interested in participating?

If you’re planning a public DC fast charging project and want to explore whether a 480-volt transformer could work for you, email us at EV@torontohydro.com.

Projects are reviewed on a rolling basis — inquire early to help secure your spot.