Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is pushing forward with plans to establish electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the city, but faces a notable challenge as only two companies have shown interest in setting up stations at 27 out of 81 proposed locations. This development leaves a significant number of 54 locations without any prospective takers, highlighting a cautious approach from potential investors in the EV sector.
The civic body’s initiative, designed as a public-private partnership, aims to utilize open spaces, building premises, and areas beneath bridges and flyovers for installing these charging points. In a scheduled meeting of the standing committee on Thursday, a proposal will be tabled to allocate sites to Adani Total Energies E-Mobility Ltd for 24 locations and EVamp Technologies Pvt Ltd for three locations.
Initially issued for 81 locations, the tender underwent amendments based on feedback received during the pre-bid meeting attended by representatives from 17 companies on March 7. Modifications included extending the lease period for the charging stations from five to ten years. The tender process commenced on February 29, with technical bids being opened on May 9, resulting in the qualification of three companies. Ultimately, bids from two companies were accepted, pending approval from the standing committee.
Upon approval, the selected companies will be mandated to install the EV charging stations within six months and comply with specified terms for electricity usage payments to the authorities.
The lukewarm response to the tender underscores the cautious market sentiment towards EV infrastructure investments in Ahmedabad. Despite the city’s growing urban landscape and increasing vehicle adoption trends, concerns over profitability, operational challenges, and regulatory uncertainties may have contributed to the subdued interest among potential stakeholders.
The AMC’s efforts to boost EV adoption through infrastructure development will require strategic adjustments and proactive engagement with industry players to attract wider participation and ensure the successful implementation of its ambitious plans for sustainable urban mobility.
