Toronto Hydro Introduces Opportunity to Fast‑Track EV Charging Projects Across the City
April 13, 2026
Toronto Hydro is charging ahead with a new pilot program designed to give local electric vehicle (EV) charging providers direct access to 480‑volt power, simplifying grid connections and making it faster and easier to expand public EV fast charging stations across the city.
This new pilot is designed to help expedite the building of EV fast charging infrastructure. Most direct current (DC) fast chargers operate at 480 volts, while utility-owned transformers, including Toronto Hydro’s, typically output 600 volts. This can result in customers needing to buy, install and maintain step‑down transformers to access the required lower voltage. The extra equipment adds cost, complexity and time to projects, and this pilot program will provide an opportunity to eliminate the need for this step.
Through this pilot, up to 10 local projects will be provided direct access to 1.5 MVA, 480‑volt transformers, giving EV charging providers direct access to the voltage most fast chargers are designed to use straight from the distribution grid, clearing a hurdle to faster deployment of public charging.
Delivering 480 volts 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
Under this pilot program, customers will be responsible for the costs associated with the 480‑volt transformer while Toronto Hydro will retain ownership and be responsible for ongoing maintenance. Performance, compatibility and system impacts will be closely monitored to generate real‑world insights, helping to guide future standards and service offerings.
The pilot is expected to run until the end of 2027 and, pending results, Toronto Hydro may transition this capability into a full-service offering, further supporting Toronto’s ongoing shift to electrified transportation.
Interested in a 480-volt transformer for your upcoming public DC fast charging project?
Visit torontohydro.com/fastchargingpilot to learn more about participating in the pilot program.
