Reference boundary

Cost planning reference only. It does not determine whether a panel upgrade is required or approved for EV, solar, or storage work.

Reference table

Compare representative panel-upgrade cost drivers for EV charging and solar projects.

Reference basis summarizes common public Canadian panel-upgrade cost drivers and planning ranges for EV and solar projects.
Project triggerCost driverLow (CAD)High (CAD)Boundary
EV charger load additionload calculation and available panel/service capacity25006500cost driver reference only; does not decide whether an upgrade is required
Solar backfeed or interconnectionpanel bus rating, breaker space, and utility interconnection path20006000cost driver reference only; does not decide whether an upgrade is required
Battery backup subpanelcritical-load panel, transfer equipment, and wiring scope30009000cost driver reference only; does not decide whether an upgrade is required
Service size increaseutility coordination, mast/meter/service equipment, and permit scope500015000cost driver reference only; does not decide whether an upgrade is required
Panel replacement onlyage, spaces, breaker compatibility, and working-clearance corrections20005000cost driver reference only; does not decide whether an upgrade is required
Use notes
  • Use this table for preliminary reference and arithmetic checks only.
  • Confirm equipment ratings, product markings, installation conditions, utility requirements, and the local authority requirements before design or field use.