Government of India sets policy for Electric Vehicle charging stations

What is the news?

The Ministry of Power has issued the revised consolidated Guidelines & Standards for charging infrastructure for Electric Vehicles.

What is the objective of these guidelines?

To enable a faster adoption of electric vehicles in India by ensuring safe, reliable, accessible and affordable Charging Infrastructure and ecosystem. 

To promote energy security and reduction of emission intensity of the country by promotion of the entire EV ecosystem.

What are the key features of the guidelines?

Firstly, any individual/entity is free to set up Public Charging Stations (PCS) without the requirement of a licence provided that such stations meet the technical, safety as well as performance standards.

Secondly, electric vehicle owners can charge their vehicles at their residence or offices using their existing electricity connections.

Thirdly, housing Societies, Malls, Office Complexes, Restaurants, Hotels are allowed to install PCS for charging of vehicles including charging of visitor’s vehicles permitted to come in its premises.

Fourthly, land available with the Govt shall be provided for installation of Public Charging Stations to a Govt on a revenue sharing basis at a fixed rate of ₹ 1 / kWh (used for charging) initially for a period of 10 years.

Fifthly, the tariff for supply of electricity to Public EV Charging Stations shall be a single part tariff and shall not exceed the “Average Cost of Supply” till 31st March 2025.

Sixthly, any Public Charging Station may obtain electricity from any generation company through open access. Open Access shall be provided for this purpose within 15 days of receipt of the application complete in all respects.

Lastly, Public Charging Station will be required to tie up with at least one online Network Service Provider (NSPs) to enable advanced remote/online booking of charging slots by EV owners.

Source: This post is based on the article “Government of India sets policy for Electric Vehicle charging stations” published in PIB on 11th Feb 2022.