Niti Aayog releases handbook for EV charging infra

• Niti Aayog has released a handbook to help state governments and local bodies in framing policies for setting up charging networks for electric vehicles.
• The objective of the handbook is to enhance charging infrastructure and facilitate a rapid transition to electric mobility in the country.
• The transition to electric mobility is a global strategy in the fight against climate change.

Key points:

• The Handbook for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Implementation has been jointly developed by NITI Aayog, Ministry of Power (MoP), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), and World Resources Institute (WRI) India.
• It provides a systematic and holistic approach for adoptions by implementing authorities and other stakeholders involved in the planning, authorization, and execution of EV charging infrastructure.
• The DST is spearheading the development of Indian standards and prototypes for EV charging, to support cost-effective charging networks that are tailored for the requirements of the EV ecosystem in India.

Role of Discoms:

• EV charging is a new type of power demand for discoms.
• It will play a pivotal role in providing seamless power supply for charging facilities and to ensure the electrical distribution network has the requisite capacity to serve the increasing demand.
• The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), are working closely with DISCOMs and State agencies in overcoming barriers to charging infrastructure implementation,

Charging networks requires a distinct approach:

• Electric vehicles can be charged at any location, provided charging points are available.

• This requires a distinct approach to planning EV charging networks that allow charging whenever they are parked, either at night or during the day.

• Local authorities need to set targets for the required scale of public charging infrastructure and ensure that it is covered in planning processes.

• The Ministry of Power has set a national target of having at least one charging station for every 3x3 grid, or at every 25km on a highway.

• The setting granular targets and plans are up to urban local bodies or state nodal agencies

• The handbook is primarily meant for implementing authorities like municipal corporations and discoms.

• It also highlights regulatory measures that can further ease the process of installing charging infrastructure.

Benefits:

• It can support the rapid scaling of charging infrastructure.
• It will promote electric vehicles on the roads, which will ultimately help in limiting pollution and greenhouse gases.