Bill 52, called the EV-Ready Homes Act (2025), updates Ontario’s Building Code. It requires new homes with garages or driveways to include special electrical features. These features will make it easier to add electric vehicle (EV) chargers in the future. The bill sets new standards for electrical systems in homes built after the law takes effect. It does not add costs directly now but ensures homes are prepared for future EV charging needs.
If you buy or build a new house in Ontario with a garage, carport, or driveway, it will need to include specific electrical setups. These setups include a bigger electrical panel (at least 200 amps), a conduit (a tube for wires) that is at least 27 mm wide, and a square electrical outlet box near the driveway or garage. These features will be installed during construction. They will make it easier and faster to add an EV charger later. The features must stop gas or fumes from passing through. The bill encourages the use of electrical systems that support EVs in future homes, but it does not require owners to install chargers immediately.
There is no specific information on additional costs in the bill. Since the bill requires new homes to include larger panels, conduits, and outlet boxes during construction, builders will likely absorb these costs as part of general construction expenses. The extra costs might be a few hundred dollars per home, but data is unavailable for precise figures. The bill aims to save homeowners time and money when installing EV chargers later.
Supporters say this law is good for future-proofing homes. By installing bigger electrical panels and conduit, it makes it easier for homeowners to add EV chargers later. This encourages more people to buy electric cars, which are cleaner and reduce air pollution. Proponents believe the upfront costs are small compared to the long-term benefits of having EV-ready homes. They see this as a step toward a greener, more sustainable transportation system.
Opponents may argue that the law could raise building costs slightly now, which might increase house prices. They note that the law only applies to new homes, so existing homeowners won’t benefit immediately. Some may also worry that the requirements add complexity to building projects. Critics might question whether the costs are justified when EVs are still becoming more popular. They argue that incentives or subsidies could be better ways to promote EV adoption instead of mandatory requirements.