Karnataka has emerged as the frontrunner in India's electric vehicle (EV) revolution, boasting the highest number of public EV charging stations in the country, according to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The state has established 5,765 charging stations, with a significant 85 percent (4,462) concentrated in the Bengaluru Urban district.
This accomplishment puts Karnataka ahead of other states, including Maharashtra (3,728 stations), Uttar Pradesh (1,989 stations), and Delhi (1,941 stations), highlighting its pioneering role in the nation's transition to electric mobility.
The establishment of these charging stations has been made possible through various funding sources, including the Union government’s Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, investments from Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), green cess funds from the State Transport Department, and public-private partnerships (PPP).
Advertisement
Karnataka, the first state in India to introduce an EV policy in 2017, is now poised to accelerate EV adoption further and establish a sustainable transportation framework for the future. As part of its ambitious plans, the state government aims to develop model EV cities across Karnataka.
Earlier this year, the State Budget 2024 announced the establishment of 2,500 new EV charging stations across the state via the PPP model.
Additionally, the government plans to invest ₹35 crore to set up 100 EV charging stations in collaboration with electricity supply companies (escoms).