Abstract:

Increasing the fleet of electric vehicles (EV) and charging infrastructure in India are key to improving air quality in cities, enhancing energy security by reducing dependence on imported crude oil, and fighting climate change. India aims to have at least 30 percent of new vehicle sales be electric by 2030 and could potentially have 102 million EVs on the road. A widespread, accessible public charging infrastructure network is needed to support a robust EV market across India. A stepwise approach is needed to ensure the efficient and timely implementation of EV charging infrastructure, such that it meets local requirements and is optimally integrated within the electricity supply, transportation networks and land availability. A well-planned charging network will reduce drivers’ fear of running out of charge and be more financially viable, which is important given the high upfront cost of building charging infrastructure. Identifying the right location is a priority consideration for siting EV charging infrastructure. Siting for charging infrastructure involves choosing the right location and, within the location, identifying the specific spot for the infrastructure. Other considerations for siting charging infrastructure are to maximize usage, minimize costs, and increase accessibility. Given the numerous considerations and stakeholders involved in siting, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Administrative College of India (ASCI) and EV Advisors developed a stepwise approach that Indian cities can follow to site EV charging infrastructure. These stepwise considerations can be applied to help stakeholders review and rank potential sites for their viability. NRDC and ASCI engaged with stakeholders in Hyderabad to develop siting criteria for use across Indian cities.