In this post we have discuss about “Future of EV” Infrastructure in India (2010–2030) and fame phases. also has discuss charging infrastructure…etc.
When the world is looking for a green and sustainable transport system, India is also no longer behind in the race. The Indian government has silently changed its view to adopt the new trend of the transportation system. With the EMPS scheme in 2024, the New EV policy in 2024, and the FAME scheme phase III, India has already conveyed its message to the globe about its new vision.
In our previous posts, readers will find the overview of “EMPS scheme 2024”, and “New EV policy in 2024”, just a click away for the new readers.
You may be curious about FAME phase III implementation and India’s vision for the implementation Future of EV Infrastructure.
This article covers both issues, in brief, the FAME scheme and India’s vision for the coming years.
The Indian government has set ambitious goals for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by the end of this decade. To make EVs account for 30% of all new private vehicle registrations, a robust EV infrastructure is a necessity. This article dives into the current state of EV infrastructure in India, the challenges it faces, and the strategies and initiatives in place to overcome these obstacles and revolutionize the EV charging landscape.
Electrifying India’s Mobility: An Overview
At present, India’s ratio of charging stations to EVs is significantly lower than the global average – approximately 1 charging station for every 135 EVs. This stark contrast reveals a potential bottleneck in the country’s journey towards achieving its EV adoption goals. However, the government has been proactive in implementing policies and incentives to improve the EV charging infrastructure, which is critical in shaping India’s electric mobility landscape.
The Indian government has launched several initiatives, including the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, to incentivize EV adoption and charging infrastructure growth. Yet, the success of these initiatives largely hinges on the involvement of the private sector. The Indian government alone hardly can create such robust and “extensive-charging” infrastructure network. Private sector players, including charging infrastructure providers and resident welfare associations (RWAs), should also come forward to the establishment of Public EV charging infrastructure.
FAME India Scheme: Accelerating Electric Mobility in India
The FAME India (Faster-Adoption & Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India) Scheme is a significant initiative by the Indian government to promote the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles across the country. Launched in 2015, the scheme aims to reduce vehicular emissions, enhance energy security, and create a sustainable ecosystem for electric mobility
Let’s break down this “FAME” into more details.
Phase-wise Implementation:
- Phase I (2015-2019):
- Budget: The initial phase had a budgetary outlay of Rs. 895 crore.
- Objective: Encourage the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Highlights:
- Supported the purchase of electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers.
- Focused on creating awareness and establishing public EV charging infrastructure.
- Promoted research and development in electric vehicle technology.
- Phase II (2019-2024):
- Budget: A total budget of Rs. 10,000 crore.
- Focus Areas:
- Public & Shared Transportation: Supporting electrification of public and shared transportation.
- Demand Incentives:
- 7,090 e Buses
- 5 lakh e-3 Wheelers
- 55,000 e-4 Wheeler Passenger Cars
- 10 lakh e-2 Wheelers
- Charging Infrastructure: Creation of charging stations across the country.
- Latest Statistics (as of 21.07.2023):
- Two-wheelers: 7,40,722 vehicles
- Three-wheelers: 83,420 vehicles
- Four-wheelers: 8,982 vehicles
- Total: 8,32,824 electric vehicles
Charging Infrastructure:
- Phase I: Sanctioned 520 charging stations.
- Phase II: Sanctioned 2,877 EV charging stations in 68 cities and 1,576 stations along expressways and highways.
- Capital Subsidy: Rs. 800 crore sanctioned to oil marketing companies for 7,432 public charging stations.
Incentives and Subsidies:
- FAME India Scheme Phase-II:
- Upfront reduction in the purchase price of electric vehicles.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automotive Sector:
- Rs. 25,938 crore to support domestic vehicle manufacturing.
- PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC):
- Rs. 18,100 crore for ACC battery manufacturing.
- GST Reduction:
- GST on EVs was reduced from 12% to 5%.
- GST on chargers reduced from 18% to 5%.
- Green License Plates: Battery-operated vehicles exempted from permit requirements
Identifying Roadblocks in EV Infrastructure Development
India’s ambitious goal of electrifying its transportation sector by 2030 comes with numerous challenges. To meet this target, the country will need to overcome several infrastructure roadblocks. The Indian government has already started to identify the roadblocks that need to be solved. Certainly, a positive attitude proves the Government’s positivity and commitment towards its target.
Let’s list the roadblocks one by one.
1. Insufficient Power Grid
India’s rapidly growing power demand has already put significant strain on the power grid. Adding EVs to the grid certainly make this situation more critical, leading to frequent power cuts, especially in rural areas. This power shortage can deter potential EV owners and discourage private sector investment in EV infrastructure. So, the Government must take this issue very seriously and address it immediately.
2. Limited Public Charging Infrastructure
Despite the government’s push, there is still a significant shortage of public charging stations. Retail stores, small business owners, and RWAs are hesitant to provide public charging stations due to the high capital required and a lack of awareness about the potential benefits. This is also a serious problem next to the “insufficiency of the Power Grid”. With the establishment of a new “Power Grid”, balanced distribution of power through public charging infrastructure is required.
3. Geographical Diversity
India’s vast and diverse geographical landscape poses unique challenges to the development of a nationwide EV charging infrastructure. Different terrains require different charging-related considerations. Moreover, rural and urban areas may need entirely different charging infrastructure due to differing population densities and travel patterns. Another tough problem to address, indeed. It needs thorough planning.
Strategies to Revolutionize EV Charging in India
India must think seriously to address the hurdles associated with establishing a sustainable and efficient EV charging network. These include increasing public charging infrastructure, incentivizing private sector investment, promoting the use of renewable energy, and developing fast-charging technology. Fortunately, the Indian government has already started to change its views. EMPS scheme 2024, new EV policy 2024, and FAME phase III prove the government’s positive attitude.
1. Expanding Public Charging Infrastructure
The Ministry of Power, in collaboration with agencies like the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), is working to build EV charging stations across the country. These stations are being set up in cities, along highways, and in public areas.
2. Integrating Renewable Energy
Adding “renewable-energy” power-sources into the EV charging infrastructure can make EV charging cheaper and more sustainable. It can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, decrease pollution, and make power cuts less likely.
To reduce dependence on fossil fuels and oil imports, India is steadily increasing its use of renewable energy. The increased adoption of EVs will require more power, which could lead to higher renewable energy generation.
Primarily India may depend upon of “Power Grid” driven by fossil fuel, but later the dependencies need to be minimized by more and more integration of renewable energy power sources.
3. Developing Fast-Charging Technology
Fast-charging technology can significantly reduce EV charging times, alleviating range anxiety and reducing the total number of required charging stations.
4. Encouraging Private Sector Investment
In a vast country like India, the participation of the private sector will play a crucial role. So, the Government must visualize this and may think to change its policy. The government should think about taking the supervising role, not the primary investor in this venture. Fortunately, the Indian government has recognized and realized the critical role of the private sector in developing EV charging infrastructure. That is why the government has introduced several initiatives and policies, like EMPS scheme 2024, EV Policy 2024, and FAME phase III, to incentivize private sector investment.
The Impact of EV Infrastructure on India’s Future
A robust EV charging infrastructure can positively impact the growth of the EV market in India by reducing range anxiety and enhancing EV adoption. This transition can also benefit the environment by improving air quality and reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. Moreover, it can boost the country’s economy.
Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The majority of GHG emissions in India come from the energy and transportation sectors. The shift towards electric mobility can significantly reduce these emissions, improving air quality and public health. Government’s slogn should be like “Less Greenhouse Gas Emission means more EV on the road”.
Economic Growth
The shift to EVs and renewable energy sources can reduce India’s dependence on oil imports, freeing up funds for job creation. The growing EV industry is predicted to create millions of jobs by 2030, contributing to India’s economic stability and growth. The EV industry in India will be a gold mine for the JOB hunters.
Powering Ahead: India’s Future of EV
India’s successful transition to electric mobility hinges on developing a robust charging infrastructure. With the government’s proactive measures, India can become a leader in sustainable transportation and clean energy. This development can also create new job opportunities, boost economic growth, and enhance public health and the overall quality of life.
In conclusion, India’s EV infrastructure is at a critical juncture, rather in a transitional state, better say. The country’s success in achieving its EV adoption goals depends on how effectively it can overcome existing challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. Also, it depends upon the private sector’s participation. With private investment, Indian government cannot handle the situation. Balanced participation of both government and private sector is the only way to take these ambitious goals to the success. Fortunately, Government has realized these and changing its vision accordingly.
With the right strategies and initiatives, India can power ahead in the race for sustainable mobility, paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future.