spot_img
HomeNewsOil Giants Propel Electric Vehicle Charging Network Across India

Oil Giants Propel Electric Vehicle Charging Network Across India

Oil companies are leading the charge in bolstering the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in India, with over 15,000 petrol pumps now equipped with charging facilities.

Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum

This significant expansion marks a doubling from the 6,700 pumps reported in March 2023, highlighting the industry’s commitment to fostering the growth of low-emission vehicles nationwide. State-run corporations such as Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum spearhead this initiative, accounting for 95% of the pumps equipped with EV chargers. Additionally, private sector players, including Rosneft-backed Nayara Energy, contribute to the remaining percentage, further amplifying the accessibility of charging facilities across the country.

Indian Oil, the largest fuel retailer in India, leads the charge with 8,760 filling stations outfitted with EV chargers, constituting nearly a quarter of its total 32,000 pumps. Similarly, Hindustan Petroleum and Bharat Petroleum contribute significantly, with 3,050 and 2,640 pumps respectively offering charging services. Companies adopt diverse strategies for EV charging deployment, with a focus on highways and specific geographical regions. Moreover, the introduction of battery swapping facilities caters predominantly to two-wheelers and three-wheelers, enhancing the convenience and accessibility of charging options for various EV segments.

Despite the commendable progress, industry executives highlight challenges such as low capacity utilisation at charging stations, primarily serving two-wheelers at present. Addressing this chicken-and-egg dilemma, experts emphasise the importance of expanding charging infrastructure to stimulate EV adoption, thereby creating a symbiotic relationship between vehicle sales and charging network utilisation. However, oil companies encounter hurdles in setting up charging facilities, including delays in obtaining electricity connections from distribution companies and inconsistent tariff structures. Despite power ministry guidelines disallowing fixed charges, some state distribution companies levy them, posing economic challenges for EV charging operations.

In 2023, India witnessed a significant uptick in EV sales, with approximately 1.53 million units sold, reflecting a 50% increase from the previous year. Recognising the pivotal role of charging infrastructure, Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum plan to expand their network to 22,000 pumps, with a focus on deploying a mix of slow and fast chargers. Furthermore, collaborations with carmakers, fleet owners, and power companies underscore oil companies’ commitment to building and operating charging infrastructure beyond petrol pumps. This concerted effort not only accelerates the adoption of EVs but also reinforces India’s position as a key player in the global transition towards sustainable mobility.

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisment -spot_img

Most Popular

Recent Comments

Skip to toolbar