Solar-powered EV charging remains in early stages in Andhra Pradesh
High upfront costs and land availability issues are slowing the deployment of solar-powered charging stations, according to The Hindu.
Solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging is in its early stages in Andhra Pradesh, despite the state's potential for renewable energy and rising interest in electric mobility, according to a report by The Hindu.
While the state has a growing EV market, public charging infrastructure is currently sporadic. Charging point operators face difficulties including high land costs, maintenance, software, and grid connectivity.
Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL) has deployed integrated solar-powered charging stations in Ladakh and Gujarat, but has not yet installed a public charger in Andhra Pradesh. CESL CEO Akhilesh Kumar Dixit said active discussions are happening with state agencies to establish new chargers.
Tata Power and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd have expanded fast-charging in the state to 166 units, including a recent addition on the Bengaluru-Tirupati Highway. However, Tata Power EV Charging Business Head Virendra Goyal told The Hindu that the company does not run solar-powered units in the state due to inadequate space and high cost components.
The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis estimated that investment in public charging infrastructure from 2020 to 2025 was only 9.6 per cent of the ₹20,600-crore required by 2030.
Amara Raja Power Systems Ltd (ARPSL) Chief Marketing Officer Pacha Lakshmi Narayana told The Hindu that a solar-powered fast-charging hub requires 2-3 acres of land. Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar said the government is developing EV charging stations but is still understanding the challenges of solar-powered segments while considering the interests of farmers.