The Ontario government has allocated an additional C$92 million to its ChargeON programme, raising total investment in public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to C$180 million, as part of its 2025/2026 budget. The funding increase comes amid broader efforts to strengthen the province’s position in the EV supply chain and respond to economic and geopolitical pressures.
ChargeON is Ontario’s flagship initiative to expand access to public EV charging. The programme operates through two streams: a competitive grant process for municipalities, Indigenous communities, non-profits, and private entities, and a government stream for deploying chargers at provincial sites such as rest stops, parks, and carpool lots.
“The additional investment will ensure continued deployment of EV chargers in key areas across the province,” budget documents state. The aim is to expand charging infrastructure in underserved areas, reduce range anxiety, and promote a more affordable, accessible, and connected charging network.
To date, over 270 projects have been approved under the ChargeON programme, which are expected to deliver more than 1,300 new EV charging ports. An additional 15 government-owned sites have also been earmarked for installations, the budget said.
Beyond infrastructure, the provincial government is signalling a deeper commitment to growing its EV and battery manufacturing base. Approximately C$46 billion has been earmarked for supporting Ontario’s EV supply chain and related innovation efforts, including collaboration with the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN).
“The imposition of U.S. tariffs has highlighted the urgent need to bolster Ontario’s economic resilience,” the government said. “In the face of economic uncertainty, the government is doubling down on its plan to build.”