The GOI has officially released the operational guidelines to roll out 72,300 EV charging stations under the PM E-Drive scheme. Under this scheme, the government is set to provide a subsidy of up to 100% for establishing the charging infrastructure.

Here, we have shared everything you need to know about the rollout of 72,300 EV charging stations under the PM E-DRIVE. Read this article thoroughly to know everything about the development of charging infrastructure across the country under this scheme.

72300 EV Charging Points to Be Installed

The GOI is going to provide subsidies based on the location. The one establishing an electric vehicle charging station will get a subsidy in two tranches, linked to compliance and performance benchmarks. Refer to the listed points to check details on the subsidy.

• A subsidy of up to 100% is going to be provided by the GOI for developing the charging infrastructure at government offices, residential colonies, hospitals, and educational institutions if free public access is ensured.
• For high-traffic areas, the GOI will provide a subsidy of 80% for upstream infrastructure, and only a 70% subsidy is going to be received for establishing charging equipment at railway stations, airports, bus terminals, metro stations, parking lots, ports, oil company outlets, and NHAI of state toll plazas.
• If anyone establishes a charging station at other above-mentioned locations such as malls, markets, and highways, they can also get a subsidy of up to 80% for upstream costs.

If anyone interested in establishing an EV charging station is required to first coordinate with the nodal agency, they will aggregate demand and submit the proposal to the central portal, and then it will be developed under BHEL’s oversight.

EV Charging Station Future

Currently, electric vehicles make up 8% of road traffic, and the central government plans to increase this to 30% by 2030. Electric vehicle adoption is slowly gaining traction in India, and to promote this, the government plans to open thousands of charging stations across the country at different locations. 

Today people do not buy electric vehicles only because of the lack of charging infrastructure. It is possible that in the next five years thousands of EV charging stations will open across the country. If this happens, then people will find it better to buy electric vehicles instead of petrol, diesel, or CNG vehicles.

Can you install an EV charging station?

Yes, if you meet the requirements. To establish an EV charging station at any location in the country, you must have a piece of land or appropriate area where you want to install it. To do so, you can enroll under the PM E-Drive scheme, because you may get up to 100% for developing charging infrastructure.

To establish an electric charging station, firstly contact the local body, because they will aggregate demand, select sites, and submit proposals via the portal. Once you are approved for it, you have to start developing the infrastructure under the oversight of BHEL, and after its completion, you will get a subsidy.

How will EV charging stations benefit people?

EV charging stations in India increase convenience for vehicle owners. More stations eliminate the worry of battery drain. Faster charging is possible in urban and highway areas. Basically, it encourages people to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) instead of petrol and diesel.

EV charging stations are beneficial for both the environment and the economy. They reduce air pollution and increase employment opportunities. It provides economic benefits to people, accelerates the adoption of EVs in India, and promotes green energy.

EV charging stations contribute to the country’s pursuit of smart and sustainable cities. People can easily charge at home, in the office, and in public places. And it also makes travel more comfortable and time-efficient.