Public charging stations: A user guide

How to find a public charging station in Quebec

There are several ways to find a public EV charging station: 

1. Download a charging station locator app, available on iOS and Android platforms. 

2. Use the interactive map from Electric Circuit.

3. Or plan your road trips online with the TripTik^® Travel Planner. You can display the electric vehicle charging stations located along your route.

The vast majority of public charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs) in the province are located in southern Quebec. Why? Because of the higher population and road infrastructure in that part of the province. Stations are concentrated in Montréal, Québec City, Laval, as well as the Montérégie and Estrie regions. 

Approximately half of these stations are connected to Hydro-Québec’s Electric Circuit, which is the largest public EV charging network in the province. 

Types of public charging stations

There are two types of public charging stations: Level 2 and DC fast chargers. The main differences involve the connector type, charging speed, and duration. 

Level 2 charging station: Operation and duration

The Level 2 station, connected to a 240-volt outlet, uses a connector called the J1772 connector. This connector is used by all electric vehicle manufacturers to enable charging of EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles. 

A 240-volt station will take 2 to 4 hours to charge a plug-in hybrid battery. Charging a fully electric vehicle with 300 to 400 km of driving range takes 8 to 12 hours. 

Fast-charging station: Saving time

The DC fast-charging station is used to charge a fully electric vehicle when travelling long distances. It can increase the electric vehicle battery level from 10% to 80% in 10 to 60 minutes—much faster than a Level 2 charger. 

Why such a big difference? Charging power varies from 50 to 500 kilowatts. The higher the power, the faster the charge—and the higher the cost. 

Each EV model has its own maximum charging capacity, typically higher for newer or premium vehicles. This information is available in your vehicle owner’s manual. Check it to avoid using an overly powerful charging station that your electric motor can’t take advantage of. 

Don’t overcharge your battery at a fast charger

Unplug your vehicle from the fast-charging station as soon as it reaches 80% charge. Your vehicle’s charging system may significantly slow down or even stop charging to protect battery health and prevent overheating. In cold weather, the system will also slow down the charge to reduce the risk of damage. 

Want to reach a 100% charge? 

Move your vehicle to a Level 2 home charging station instead. This will help you avoid a surcharge: once battery charge reaches 90%, the cost increases. You’ll also free up the fast charger for the next user. 

Connector types for EV charging

Most fast-charging stations offer two types of connectors: CHAdeMO and CCS Combo. 

CCS Combo connector: The North American standard

Most North American, European, and South Korean automakers use the CCS Combo connector (Combined Charging System). This connector allows both standard and fast charging with a single charge port. It is lighter and more compact than CHAdeMO. 

CHAdeMO connector: Still in use

CHAdeMO stands for “CHArge de MOve.” It is mainly used on some Asian-origin vehicles, such as: 

• Kia Soul EV (2015 to 2019) 

• Nissan LEAF 

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV 

Good to know: Some newer stations no longer have the CHAdeMO connector, which is being phased out by many manufacturers. 

Tesla connector and Superchargers

Tesla vehicles use their own connector with their own ultra-fast charging network called Tesla Supercharger. Tesla drivers can also use fast chargers equipped with CCS Combo or CHAdeMO connectors, with an adapter (sold separately). 

NACS connector: The next generation

NACS stands for North American Charging Standard. It is the same connector type used by Tesla. Several automakers have announced plans to gradually adopt this standard starting in 2025. 

How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?

Level 2 charging station rates

Electric Circuit partners can adjust their electric car charging rates on June 1 and December 1 each year. They can choose to pay for EV charging between two methods:  

• An hourly rate from $0 to $3* (billed by the minute in $0.25 increments) 

• A flat rate per session ranging from $0 to $10, regardless of charging time 

Fast-charging station rates

The cost of fast charging depends on the power delivered and the battery’s state of charge. In the case of a FLO charging network public charger, the rate is also set by the station owner. 

Payment methods at public charging stations

Payment at Level 2 or fast-charging stations from major charging networks is done using a mobile charging app. The app helps you locate an available station, start the session remotely, and monitor the charging status. 

You can also activate the station using an RFID card. This option is convenient in remote areas or underground garages with no cellular signal. Charging costs are billed directly to the credit card linked to your account. 

Hydro-Québec’s Electric Circuit and FLO are the two main public networks providing EV charging in Quebec. You can access a FLO station using the Electric Circuit mobile app or membership card—and vice versa. 

ChargePoint stations are very common in the United States. They’re also accessible with an Electric Circuit or FLO account. Some networks, such as Electrify Canada, accept credit card payments directly at the station. 

Need help using a public charging station?

CAA-Quebec members can access Mobility Advisory Services at any time, free of charge, for any questions about charging stations, electric vehicles, or gas-powered cars. Roadside Assistance for EVs is also there to help EV owners in case of trouble. 

_{*Charging costs from Electric Circuit as of February 3, 2025.}