Karnataka Leads with 5,765 EV Charging Stations, Tops National List

Bengaluru EXPRESS News: Karnataka has emerged as a leader in the country’s transition to electric mobility, boasting the highest number of public electric vehicle charging stations—an impressive 5,765. This achievement, as reported by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power, underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and clean energy.

Energy Minister KJ George has played a pivotal role in driving this progress, positioning Karnataka at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution in India.

According to recent data, Karnataka has set a remarkable benchmark with its electric vehicle infrastructure, and Bangalore city is leading the charge. The Bangalore Urban district alone boasts 4,462 EV charging stations, representing over 85% of the state’s total. This highlights Bangalore’s pivotal role in Karnataka’s impressive achievement, underscoring the city’s commitment to advancing sustainable transportation.

Karnataka has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the electric vehicle sector, becoming the first state in India to introduce an EV policy in 2017. This pioneering initiative was further bolstered in 2021 with enhanced incentives, reflecting the state’s unwavering commitment to advancing electric mobility. Looking ahead, the government is set to develop model EV cities across Karnataka, a strategic move aimed at significantly boosting EV adoption and establishing a sustainable transportation framework for the future.

“Karnataka has set a new benchmark in the nation with 5,765 public electric vehicle charging stations, according to Bureau of Energy Efficiency statistics. This achievement underscores the state’s strong commitment to advancing electric mobility. He highlighted that the strategic initiatives and policies implemented by the state reflect a concerted effort to build a robust EV infrastructure and promote sustainable transportation,” Energy Minister KJ George said.

The impressive figure of 5,765 charging stations places Karnataka well ahead of other states, with Maharashtra at 3,728 stations, Uttar Pradesh at 1,989, and Delhi at 1,941. The state’s substantial lead over Tamil Nadu with 1,413 stations, Kerala with 1,212, and Rajasthan with 1,129, further demonstrates Karnataka’s commitment to advancing the EV ecosystem. Additionally, Karnataka outpaces Gujarat with 992, Telangana with 956, West Bengal with 763, Haryana with 709, and Andhra Pradesh with 601, showcasing its unparalleled progress and leadership in developing a comprehensive electric vehicle infrastructure.

“Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company Limited (Bescom), the key agency overseeing EV charging infrastructure in Karnataka, has played a crucial role in the recent surge in electric vehicle adoption. As the nodal body responsible for expanding and managing the state’s EV charging network, BESCOM’s efforts to enhance accessibility and infrastructure have been instrumental in driving electric vehicle uptake. Their proactive initiatives and strategic planning have significantly supported the state’s transition to sustainable transportation,” BESCOM MD Mahantesh Bilagi said on topping the list.

The charging stations, a testament to Karnataka’s commitment to sustainable transportation, have been funded through a variety of sources. These include the Union government’s Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, BESCOM’s own investments, green cess funds from the state transport department, and public-private partnerships.

In a significant boost to Karnataka’s electric vehicle ecosystem, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in his February 2024 state budget, has proposed the establishment of nearly 2,500 new EV charging stations across the state through a public-private partnership model. This forward-looking initiative reflects the government’s strong commitment to advancing electric mobility. Additionally, the government plans to invest Rs 35 crore in setting up 100 charging centres in collaboration with power supply companies, further supporting the growth and accessibility of EV infrastructure in Karnataka.

https://evyatra.beeindia.gov.in/public-charge-stations/