How To Set Up EV Charging Stations In India?
Setting up EV charging stations in India is a step towards sustainable transportation and a greener future. The process involves several key steps and adhering to specific legal and regulatory requirements.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to set up EV charging stations in India:
1. Understanding the Policy Framework
India’s policy framework for EV charging infrastructure is guided by the Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Authority. Familiarize yourself with the “Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles – Guidelines and Standards” issued by the Ministry of Power. This document outlines the basic norms, standards, and guidelines for setting up public EV charging stations.
2. Site Selection
Choosing the right location is crucial for the success of your EV charging station. High traffic areas near highways, malls, residential complexes, and office parks are ideal. The site should be accessible and convenient for EV owners. Consider factors like electricity supply, space for parking, and ease of installation.
3. Infrastructure Requirements for setting up EV charging station
➡️ Installation of substation equipment, transformer and safety equipment.
➡️ 33/11 KV cables and related equipment for meters and lines.
➡️ A designated and safe parking area to enable customers to park their cars while charging them.
➡️ Installation of all charger models approved by international and local standards.
➡️ Installation of chargers used by EV users, i.e. rapid chargers, fast chargers and slow chargers. Their charging ability varies in each charger.
➡️ Adequate security measures to wait while vehicles are getting charged.
4. Legal Documentation and Permissions
Land Ownership or Lease Agreement: Ensure you have legal rights to the land, either through ownership or a lease agreement.
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Local Authorities: You may need to obtain a NOC from local municipal corporations or development authorities.
Electricity Connection: Apply for a commercial electricity connection from the local electricity distribution company (DISCOM). This involves submitting an application along with necessary documents and obtaining a sanctioned load sufficient for the charging station.
Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Registration: Register with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, which may be required for compliance with energy efficiency norms.
License from Power Ministry: While the Ministry of Power has de-licensed the setting up of EV charging stations, adherence to technical, safety, and performance standards is mandatory.
Fire Department Approval: Depending on the size and capacity of your charging station, getting clearance from the fire department might be necessary to ensure compliance with safety norms.
4. Technical Requirements and Standards
Adhere to the technical standards for EV charging stations as prescribed by the Ministry of Power and Central Electricity Authority. This includes specifications for chargers, connectors, and safety features. India primarily follows the Bharat Charge Point Standards for slow charging and CCS (Combined Charging System) and CHAdeMO for fast charging.
5. Installation and Commissioning
Hire a professional engineering team experienced in EV charging station installation. The process includes electrical wiring, installing charging equipment, connectivity, and safety measures. Post-installation, the station must be tested and commissioned for operational readiness.
6. Operational Management
Operational management involves the day-to-day running of the EV charging station, including maintenance, billing, customer service, and dealing with technical issues. Consider adopting a smart charging station management system to streamline operations, monitor usage, and manage payments.
7. Marketing and Partnership
To attract EV owners, invest in marketing your charging station. Collaborate with EV manufacturers, dealerships, and other stakeholders to increase visibility. Offering promotions and joining EV charging networks can also enhance customer footfall.
8. Sustainability Practices
Incorporate green practices, such as using solar panels to power your charging stations, to reduce the carbon footprint and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Now lts get into the commercials of setting up ev charging stations in India
The average cost for setting up a public EV charging station in India varies from Rs.1 lakh to Rs.50 lakh. The cost can be classified as below:
📌 Infrastructural costs
📌 Charger costs
Infrastructural costs for setting up EV charging stations in India
The infrastructural costs include equipment and land required for the EV charging station. The cost break-up is as follows:
| Requirement | Cost |
| Land lease at Rs.50,000 per month | Rs.6,00,000 |
| Electricity transformers, connections and energy meters | Rs.7,50,000 |
| Civil works | Rs. 2,50,000 |
| Maintenance and technical team | Rs.3,00,000 |
| Marketing and brand promotion | Rs.50,000 |
| EVSE management software and integration | Rs.40,000 |
Note: The mentioned costs above are estimated costs that may differ according to the place of the EV charging station.
Charger costs for setting up EV charging stations
According to government guidelines, public EV charging stations must have at least two slow (AC) chargers and three fast (DC) chargers. The cost of level 1 chargers is lower than level 2 and 3 chargers. The cost of different chargers is as follows:
| Type of charger | Cost |
| Bharat AC – 001 | Rs.65,000 |
| Bharat DC – 001 | Rs.2,47,000 |
| Type 2 AC | Rs.1,20,000 |
| CHAdeMO | Rs.13,50,000 |
| CCS | Rs.14,00,000 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may differ depending on its suppliers.
Subsidy on EV charging stations in India
In a significant move towards bolstering the electric vehicle (EV) charging network in India, the government, under the FAME India Scheme Phase II, has earmarked a whopping ₹800 crores for Public Sector Unit (PSU) Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) including Indian Oil (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL). This funding is dedicated to the establishment of 7,432 fast charging stations for EVs across the nation by March 2024.
This ambitious project not only aims at enhancing the charging infrastructure but also at providing substantial support in terms of electrical and civil work infrastructure. The subsidy covers up to 60% of the cost involved in setting up a public EV charging station. This includes the installation of low and high tension cables, distribution transformers, circuit breakers/isolators, AC distribution boxes, mounting structures, protective equipment, fencing, and other civil works. Additionally, part of the funds will facilitate the Charge Point Operators (CPOs) in acquiring electricity connections from DISCOMs, ensuring a streamlined process for the electrification of stations.
With approximately 6,586 EV charging stations already operational across India, the addition of 7,432 new stations is poised to significantly enhance the country’s EV charging ecosystem. This expansion is designed to cater to a wide range of electric vehicles, including two-wheelers, four-wheelers, minibuses, and light commercial vehicles, ensuring a broad spectrum of EV owners benefit from these facilities.
Strategically located in metros, smart cities, cities within hilly states, and along expressways and highways, these fast-charging stations aim to provide EV owners with a hassle-free and seamless charging experience. The widespread availability of charging points is expected to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, offering convenience for inter-city travel and long distances.
The initiative reflects a clear vision for the future of mobility in India, prioritizing sustainability and accessibility. With charging stations set to be accessible in key locations such as offices, lodging facilities, and highway restaurants, the government’s push towards EV infrastructure promises a new era of eco-friendly transportation, making electric vehicle usage more practical and appealing to the masses.
In the End…
Setting up an EV charging station in India is a promising venture, given the country’s push towards electric mobility. However, it requires careful planning, adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks, and efficient operational management. By following the steps outlined above, entrepreneurs can contribute to building a robust EV infrastructure, supporting the transition to cleaner energy and a sustainable future.
Some part of this content is taken from Cleartax