Charging your EV in Gujarat: Stations, Costs, and Accessibility

There are a growing number of EV charging stations in Gujarat, as the state government is actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. The government has set a target of having 100,000 EV charging stations in the state by 2025.

As of September 2023, there are over 1,000 EV charging stations in Gujarat, located in major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Surat.

These charging stations are operated by a variety of companies, including government-owned companies, private companies, and public-private partnerships.

The cost of charging an EV in Gujarat varies depending on the type of charger and the charging company. However, in general, the cost of charging an EV is significantly lower than the cost of fueling a traditional vehicle. For example, the cost of charging an EV at a fast charger is typically around Rs. 10 per kWh. This means that it would cost around Rs. 200 to fully charge a typical electric car. On the other hand, the cost of fueling a petrol car with a 50-liter fuel tank would be around Rs. 3,500, assuming a fuel price of Rs. 70 per liter.

EV charging stations in Gujarat are generally accessible to the public. However, some charging stations may be located in private or restricted areas. It is always best to check the location of a charging station before you go.

Here are some tips for charging your EV in Gujarat

Charging Stations in Gujarat

1. Public Charging Infrastructure: Gujarat has been actively promoting electric mobility, and various public and private organizations have been installing EV charging stations across the state. Charging stations can be found in cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, and Gandhinagar. These stations are typically located in strategic areas like shopping malls, public parking lots, and along major highways.
   
   
2. State-Owned Charging Infrastructure: The Gujarat government, through its nodal agency Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL), has been working on expanding the charging infrastructure. They have established public EV charging stations under the "Saubhagya Yojana" initiative.

Costs of Charging

The cost of charging an EV in Gujarat can vary depending on the type of charging station and the tariff rates. Here are some common charging options:

1. Home Charging: If you have a home charger, the cost of electricity will depend on your residential electricity tariff. Charging at home is usually the most convenient and cost-effective option.
   
   
2. Public Charging: Public charging stations may have different pricing models. Some may charge on a per-unit basis (kWh), while others might have a time-based fee. Rates can vary, so it's essential to check with the specific charging station or service provider for their pricing details.
   
   
3. Fast Charging: Fast-charging stations, which provide a quicker charge, may be more expensive than standard chargers. Again, the pricing can vary between different providers.
   
   
4. Government Subsidies: Depending on government policies and incentives, there may be subsidies or discounts available for EV charging. Check with local authorities for any ongoing schemes.

Accessibility

Accessibility to EV charging stations in Gujarat has been improving. You can find charging stations in urban areas and along major highways. To locate charging stations and check their availability, you can use various mobile apps and websites designed for this purpose. Some common tools include:

1. Kazam EV: The Kazam EV app has a user-friendly layout and offers several filter settings. You can easily find the nearest charging spot for your Electric vehicle and book your parking spot.
   
   
2. PlugShare: A popular app and website that provides information on EV charging stations, including location, availability, and user reviews.
   
   
3. ChargePoint: A global network of EV charging stations with a handy mobile app for finding and using charging stations.
   
   
4. Local Utility Websites: Check the official website of GUVNL or local utility companies for information on charging station locations and availability.
   
   
5. EV Charging Apps: Several India-specific EV charging apps provide real-time information on nearby charging stations.
   
   

Overall, Gujarat is making progress in developing its EV charging infrastructure, and it is becoming easier to find charging stations across the state. However, it is important to research the location and accessibility of charging stations before planning a trip charging your EV in Gujarat is becoming increasingly convenient and affordable. With the government's support and the growing number of charging stations, EV adoption in Gujarat is expected to accelerate in the coming years.