What is the Cost of Setting Up an Electric Car Charging Station in India?

Rahul Jha
Rahul Jha

Updated on: 9th February, 2024 IST

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best ev electric vehicle charging station on delhi chandigarh highway

The electric vehicle (EV) market is charging ahead in India, and with it, the demand for EV charging stations. As the number of EVs on the road increases, so too will the need for places to charge them. But setting up an EV charging station in India can be a costly endeavour. The cost of the equipment, permits, and installation can add up quickly.

In this blog, we will explore the cost of setting up an EV charging station in India, as well as the factors that affect the cost. We will also provide some tips on how to reduce the cost of your EV charging station. So whether you are a business owner looking to add an EV charging station to your property or a government official looking to develop a network of EV charging stations, this blog is tailor-made for you.

Together, let us explore the possibilities!

How to Set Up an EV Charging Station in India

Setting up an EV charging station can be a costly investment, but it can also be a profitable business. With careful planning and execution, you can establish a successful EV charging station that will serve the needs of EV drivers in your community.

If you are considering setting up an EV charging station in India, here are the steps you need to take:

  • Choose a location

The location of your EV charging station is critical. It should be accessible to EV drivers, and it should have enough space for the charging station and parking for EV vehicles.

  • Obtain the necessary permits

You will need to obtain the necessary permits from the local government before you can set up an EV charging station.

  • Install the charging equipment

The type of charging equipment you choose will depend on the type of EVs you want to service. You will also need to install a payment system for users to pay for their charging.

  • Market your EV charging station

Once your EV charging station is up and running, you need to market it to EV drivers. You can do this by placing signs at your location, advertising online, or working with local businesses to promote your station.

Read More – Best EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Station on Delhi-Chandigarh Highway.

Minimum Requirements for a Public Charging Station in India

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set minimum requirements for public charging stations in India. These requirements are designed to ensure that EV drivers have access to safe, reliable, and convenient charging stations.

The following are the minimum requirements for public charging stations in India:

  • Location

The charging station must be located in a public area, such as a parking lot, shopping mall, or highway rest stop. This ensures that EV drivers have easy access to charging stations, regardless of where they are.

  • Charging points

The charging station must have at least one charging point for each type of EV, including slow chargers (AC) and fast chargers (DC). This ensures that EV drivers of all types can find a charging station that meets their needs.

  • Payment system

The charging station must be equipped with a payment system, such as a credit card reader or a mobile app. This allows EV drivers to pay for their charging conveniently and easily.

  • Accessibility

The charging station must be accessible to people with disabilities. This ensures that everyone has equal access to charging stations.

Read More – Best EV Charging Station in Bengaluru – DETAILS.

Cost Estimates for a Public Charging Station (PCS) in India

The cost of setting up a public charging station in India varies depending on the type of charging equipment you choose, the size of the station, and the location. Since the EV revolution is in its early stages, the average cost of setting up a public charging station in India is around ₹30 lakh-₹50 lakh. However, the more the EVs become common, these prices are expected to come down a notch.

An electricity connection makes up a major chunk of the cost of setting up a charging station since it's a commercial unit which is used for business purposes. Civil work that includes construction and material etc. is also one of the major expenses.

The following table provides a cost estimate for some of the key expenses involved with a public charging station in India:

Key AreasCost
New electricity connection~ ₹7.5 lakh
Civil work~ ₹2.5 lakh-₹5 lakh
EVSE management software + Integration costs~ ₹50,000-₹1.5 lakh
Technician and manpower, along with maintenance costs~ ₹3.5 lakh per year
Advertising and promotion~ ₹2.5 lakh-₹5 lakh
Land lease~ ₹6 lakh-₹10 lakh per year

Types of Charges in Public Charging Stations

Public charging stations offer two main types of charging: slow charging and fast charging. The type of charge you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

  • Slow Charging

Slow chargers typically charge EVs at a rate of 2-5 kW. This means that it can take several hours to fully charge an EV using a slow charger. Slow chargers are the most affordable option, and they are a good choice for people who do not need to charge their EVs quickly.

  • Fast Charging

Fast chargers typically charge EVs at a rate of 50-150 kW. This means that it can take only a few minutes to fully charge an EV using a fast charger. Fast chargers are the most expensive option, but they are a good choice for people who need to charge their EVs quickly.

Read More – Best EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Station in Mumbai.

Which Type of Charge is Right for You?

When considering which type of charge is right for you and your EV, it's important to assess your specific needs and preferences. Both slow charging and fast charging have their advantages and considerations. Here's a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

  • Slow Charging
  1. Slow chargers are generally more affordable to install and maintain compared to fast chargers. If you have budget constraints or are looking for a cost-effective option, slow charging can be a suitable choice.
  1. If you have a residential charging setup or a longer parking duration, slow charging can be convenient. It allows you to charge your EV overnight or during extended periods when the vehicle is not in use.
  1. Slow charging tends to be gentler on the battery, which can contribute to better long-term battery health and longevity. If preserving your battery's lifespan is a priority, slow charging is a recommended option.
  • Fast Charging
  1. Fast chargers significantly reduce the time required to charge an EV. If you frequently travel long distances or require quick top-ups during the day, fast charging can provide the convenience of rapid charging and minimise downtime.
  1. Fast chargers are commonly found at public charging stations along highways, commercial areas, and rest stops. 

What is the Revenue Model of EV Charging Stations?

It is crucial to have a well-defined revenue model to make an EV charging station financially viable. Here are some revenue streams that charging station owners can explore:

  • Charging Fees

Charging station owners can charge a fee for the electricity consumed during the charging process. This fee can be calculated based on the time taken to charge or the amount of energy consumed.

  • Subscription Plans

Charging station owners can offer subscription plans to frequent users, providing them with discounted charging rates or additional benefits.

  • Partnerships

Collaborating with local businesses can help share the cost of setting up and maintaining the charging station. Partnering with shopping malls, parking lots, or commercial establishments can provide a win-win situation for both parties.

  • Advertising and Promotions

Charging station owners can generate revenue by allowing advertisements on their charging stations or partnering with businesses for promotional activities.

  • Government Incentives

Explore government incentives or subsidies that can help offset the cost of setting up an EV charging station. These incentives may include financial support or tax benefits.

Read More – Best Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Gurgaon.

What is the Cost of Charging your EV?

Apart from the setup cost of an EV charging station, EV owners need to consider the cost of charging their vehicles. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Electricity Tariffs

The cost of charging an EV depends on the electricity tariff, which varies across regions. It is advisable to analyse the electricity tariffs and choose the most cost-effective option.

  • Charging Time

Charging an EV during off-peak hours can result in lower electricity rates. Time-of-use tariffs offer discounted rates during specific periods, encouraging users to charge their vehicles at non-peak hours.

  • Battery Capacity and Range

Charging costs will depend on the battery capacity and the driving range of the EV. EVs with larger batteries or longer ranges will require more charging time and, consequently, higher costs.

Future of EV Charging Stations in India

The future of EV charging stations in India looks promising and is driven by various factors. Here's a closer look at some of them:

  • Growing EV Market

The Indian EV market is expanding rapidly, with an increasing number of EVs on the road. This surge in EV adoption necessitates the development of a robust charging infrastructure across the country.

  • Government Support

The Indian government has demonstrated its commitment to promoting electric mobility through various initiatives, policies, and incentives. These efforts aim to create an enabling environment for the establishment of a widespread charging network.

  • Technological Advancements

Advancements in charging technologies, such as faster charging speeds and improved infrastructure, are expected to enhance the convenience and efficiency of EV charging stations.

  • Investment Opportunities

The EV charging sector presents lucrative investment opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. As the demand for charging stations grows, so does the potential for profitable business ventures.

Read More – Best EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Station in Delhi – DETAILS.

Government Initiatives for EV Charging Stations in India

The Indian government has taken several initiatives to encourage the development of EV charging infrastructure:

  • FAME India Scheme

The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) India scheme provides financial incentives to support the deployment of EV charging stations. These incentives aim to reduce the initial investment burden on charging station operators.

  • National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP)

The NEMMP sets ambitious targets for EV adoption in India and emphasises the need for a robust charging infrastructure. The plan outlines strategies to facilitate the setup of charging stations across the country.

  • Public-Private Partnerships

The government encourages public-private partnerships to drive investment and collaboration in the EV charging sector. Such partnerships help share costs and leverage expertise, contributing to the rapid expansion of the charging network.

What is the Current Status of EVs in India?

The current status of EVs in India showcases significant growth potential. According to ET Auto, EV sales in India were at 10,23,735 units in CY2022, accounting for 4.93% of all vehicle sales. This surge in numbers can be attributed to various factors such as government incentives, environmental consciousness, and improved vehicle offerings from manufacturers. This sales growth indicates a growing market for EV charging stations.

Efforts to establish a robust charging infrastructure are gaining momentum. Both public and private entities are investing in charging stations, and charging networks are expanding in key urban centres and along highways. The Indian government has set a target to achieve a significant share of electric vehicles in the country's overall vehicle sales by 2030. This goal necessitates the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure to support the anticipated growth in EV adoption.

What are Battery Swapping Stations and Why Are They Important?

Battery swapping stations offer an alternative charging solution that addresses the challenges associated with traditional charging methods. Here's a breakdown of some of the benefits:

  • Quick Battery Exchange

Battery swapping stations allow EV owners to exchange depleted batteries with fully charged ones rapidly. This eliminates the need for lengthy charging times, making it convenient for users on long-distance journeys.

  • Reduced Infrastructure Requirements

The focus is on battery storage and quick exchange mechanisms rather than charging infrastructure, making it a cost-effective option.

  • Scalability and Flexibility

Battery swapping stations offer scalability as the number of stations and batteries can be increased to meet the growing demand. It also provides flexibility for users who may have concerns about charging availability or prolonged charging times.

  • Commercial Applications

Battery swapping is particularly relevant for commercial fleet operators, where quick turnaround times and uninterrupted operation are essential. It enables efficient utilisation of EVs without extended downtime for charging.

The Bottom Line

Setting up electric car charging stations in India involves costs for equipment, installation, permits, and maintenance. However, the future is promising, driven by a growing EV market and government initiatives.

Despite the initial investment, the long-term benefits make charging stations an attractive opportunity. A robust infrastructure will accelerate EV adoption, reduce emissions, and foster a greener transportation ecosystem. In short, the EV charging industry's growth is vital for India's transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.

FAQs

Q. What factors contribute to the cost of setting up an electric car charging station in India?

Equipment costs, installation expenses, permits and licences, maintenance and operational expenses, and location impact the overall cost.

Q. Are there any government incentives or subsidies available to offset the cost of setting up an electric car charging station in India?

Yes, the Indian government offers incentives and subsidies under the FAME India Scheme, including capital subsidies and reduced GST rates.

Q. What are the minimum requirements for a public charging station in India?

Public charging stations must be located in accessible public areas, have charging points for different types of EVs, and be equipped with a payment system.

Q. What are the different types of charges offered at public charging stations?

Public charging stations offer slow charging and fast charging options, depending on the charging speed and time required.

Q. What is the future of EV charging stations in India?

The future looks promising due to the growing EV market, government initiatives, technological advancements, and investment opportunities.

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