Tamil Nadu’s efforts to establish electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along highways and roads, as mandated by the state’s electric vehicle policy, have hit a roadblock due to delays in issuing tenders for these facilities. Despite the identification of suitable locations along highways, the progress in setting up these charging points remains uncertain.
The Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) identified 100 suitable locations for EV charging stations, but the tendering process has been delayed. The state government’s EV policy requires the installation of charging stations every 25 km along highways and roads throughout the state, with a minimum distance of three kilometers from sub-stations.
As of now, Tamil Nadu has 441 operational EV charging stations, with support from the Central government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme. Given the increasing number of electric vehicles in the state,Tangedco plans to expand its network of charging stations beyond the initial 100 units.
The delay in issuing tenders for new charging stations has raised concerns about the state’s ability to meet the demand for convenient EV charging infrastructure, hindering the state’s transition to cleaner and sustainable transportation options.
