What FLO charging stations are and where to find them

FLO is a network of public and semi-public electric vehicle charging stations across Canada and the northeastern United States, operated by Hydro-Québec's subsidiary. You'll find FLO chargers at shopping centers, parking garages, workplaces, and municipal lots. Unlike some charging networks that require a specific car brand, FLO stations work with any EV that has a standard connector.

FLO operates both Level 2 chargers (which add 20 to 30 miles of range per hour) and DC fast chargers (which can add 100+ miles in 20 to 30 minutes). The type available depends on the location — shopping centers typically have Level 2, while highway corridors and major transit hubs tend to have DC fast chargers. You can search for nearby stations through the FLO mobile app or website by entering your address or current location.

Key Takeaways

  • FLO chargers work with any EV model and are found across Canada and the northeastern U.S., with both Level 2 and DC fast charging options depending on location.
  • You need a FLO membership card or the FLO mobile app to start a charging session; you cannot use a charger without one or the other.
  • Pricing varies by location and charger type, with some workplaces and retailers offering free charging to customers or employees while public stations charge per kilowatt-hour or per session.
  • Charging time ranges from 30 minutes to several hours depending on whether you use a DC fast charger or Level 2 charger and how depleted your battery is.
  • The FLO app shows real-time availability, pricing, and charger status before you drive to a station, so you can confirm it is working and not occupied.

How to set up a FLO account and start charging

To use any FLO charger, you must first create an account through the FLO website or mobile app. During signup, you provide your email, password, and payment method (credit or debit card). FLO will ask for your vehicle information — make, model, and year — so the app can show you compatible chargers and provide relevant charging tips.

Once your account is active, you have two ways to start a charge. The first is using the FLO mobile app: open it, find a nearby charger, and tap "Start Charging." The second is using a physical FLO membership card, which you can order during signup or request later. The card works at any FLO station without needing your phone. Many people carry the card as a backup in case their phone battery dies or the app malfunctions.

Understanding FLO pricing and payment

FLO pricing is not uniform across all stations. Some locations charge per kilowatt-hour (kWh) — typically between $0.20 and $0.40 per kWh depending on the region and time of day. Others charge a flat session fee, which might be $3 to $5 for a Level 2 session or $5 to $15 for a DC fast charge. A few locations, especially at workplaces or retail partners, offer free charging to members or customers.

You can see the exact price for any station before you plug in by opening the FLO app and selecting that location. The app displays the charger type, current availability, and the cost structure. Your payment method on file is charged automatically when the session ends. FLO sends a receipt to your email, which you can use for expense tracking if you charge at work or for business purposes.

DC fast charging versus Level 2: which is right for your trip

DC fast chargers are the quickest option and make sense for long road trips or when you need to charge in under an hour. A 30-minute DC fast charge can add 100 to 200 miles of range, depending on your vehicle and battery size. However, DC chargers are more expensive per session and are less common outside major highways and city centers.

Level 2 chargers are slower but cheaper and far more abundant. A Level 2 session typically takes 4 to 8 hours to fully charge an EV, or 1 to 2 hours to add 20 to 30 miles. Level 2 chargers are ideal for shopping trips, workplace charging, or overnight parking. If you have time and are not in a hurry, Level 2 is usually the more economical choice. The FLO app lets you filter by charger type so you can decide which suits your timeline and budget.

What to do if a FLO charger is broken or occupied

The FLO app shows real-time status for each charger — whether it is available, in use, or offline. If you arrive at a station and find a charger is not working, you can report it directly through the app. FLO's support team reviews reports and dispatches maintenance. Reporting a broken charger helps other drivers avoid wasting time and helps FLO prioritize repairs.

If all chargers at your chosen location are occupied, the app will show you the next available FLO station nearby, including distance and estimated wait time. You can also set a notification in the app to alert you when a specific charger becomes available, though this works best if you are staying in the area. For DC fast chargers on highways, FLO publishes real-time occupancy data so you can plan your route around busy times.

Common issues and how to troubleshoot them

If your FLO card or app does not start a charge, first check that your account is in good standing — unpaid charges or expired payment methods will block new sessions. Open the app and verify your payment information is current. If it is, try restarting the app or, if using a card, try a different charger to see if the issue is with that specific station.

If you are charged unexpectedly or see a session you do not recognize, contact FLO support through the app or website with the session date, time, and location. FLO can review the transaction and issue a refund if there was an error. Keep your receipts for a few months in case you need to dispute a charge. If your car's connector does not fit a FLO charger, check that you are using the correct adapter for your vehicle — most EVs come with adapters for multiple connector types, and FLO stations are labeled with which connectors they support.

Planning a long road trip with FLO chargers

Before a long drive, use the FLO app to map out charger locations along your route. Mark DC fast chargers on highways where you plan to stop for 20 to 40 minutes, and note Level 2 chargers near hotels or restaurants where you might spend an hour or more. FLO's route planner feature (available in the app) suggests charging stops based on your vehicle's range and current battery level.

Book or reserve chargers in advance if FLO offers that feature in your region — some locations allow you to hold a charger for a set time window. Always have a backup plan: identify a second or third charger option at each stop in case your first choice is broken or fully occupied. Charge to 80 percent rather than 100 percent on long trips; charging slows significantly after 80 percent and wastes time. Arriving at a charger with at least 10 percent battery remaining gives you a safety margin if your next charger is farther than expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a FLO membership card, or can I just use the app?

You can use either one. The app is convenient if your phone is charged, but the physical card is a useful backup. Many drivers carry both — the card in their wallet and the app on their phone. If you lose your card, you can order a replacement through the app, though it may take a few days to arrive.

What happens if I unplug my car before the session is complete?

You are charged for the time and energy used up to that point. If you need to leave early, straightforward unplug and end the session through the app or by tapping your card again. You will not be charged for the remaining time. Some chargers have idle fees if you leave your car plugged in after charging is complete, so check the station details in the app.

Can I use FLO chargers if I live outside Canada or the northeastern U.S.?

FLO's network is limited to Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. If you are traveling outside these regions, you will need to use other charging networks like Tesla Supercharger, Electrify America, or Evgo. Check the coverage map in the FLO app to see if chargers are available along your planned route.

Is there a monthly subscription plan, or do I pay per use?

FLO offers both pay-per-use and subscription plans depending on your region. Pay-per-use is standard — you are charged only when you charge. Some areas offer monthly or annual memberships that reduce the per-kilowatt-hour rate if you charge frequently. Check the FLO app or website for subscription options in your area.

What should I do if my payment method is declined at a charger?

Update your payment information in the FLO app when ready — an expired card or insufficient funds will prevent new sessions. If you are away from home and cannot update your card, contact FLO support through the app. They may be able to temporarily unlock the charger or help you troubleshoot the issue over the phone.