Bureau of Energy Efficiency: Karnataka records highest number of EV charging stations

Registering a whooping number of 5,765 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations, Karnataka has become the country’s top state with the most public EV charging stations, according to the data recently reported by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency.

The Energy Minister of State, KJ George stated, "This achievement demonstrates the state's strong commitment to promoting electric mobility”. He further emphasized that the state's strategic objectives and policies indicate a determined effort to establish a strong EV infrastructure and encourage sustainable mobility.

In the data shown, Bengaluru Urban District is the state's largest contributor accounting for over 85% of all charging stations. Bengaluru City alone has around 4,462 charging stations.

"Karnataka has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the electric vehicle sector, becoming India's first state to implement an EV policy in 2017. This pioneering plan was strengthened in 2021 with additional incentives, indicating the state's consistent commitment to improving electric mobility. Looking ahead, the government plans to construct model EV towns throughout Karnataka, a strategic initiative aimed at considerably increasing EV adoption and developing a sustainable transportation framework for the future,” according to an energy department statement. 

The charging stations across the state are supported through a variety of programs, including the Union government's Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) plan, BESCOM's investments, green cess funding from the state transportation department, and public-private collaborations.

In February 2024 Karnataka state budget has plans to establish approximately 2,500 more EV charging stations across the state via public public-private partnership model.

“Additionally, the government also 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,” citing an official statement Deccan Herald reported.

Karnataka had the highest number while Maharashtra was second with 3728 followed by Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.