India’s electric vehicle or EV sales crossed 2 million in 2024, and the recent booking records of MG and Mahindra’s latest electric vehicles may double the tally in 2025. That said, the revolution is gaining momentum with increasing sales of the born EV platforms that offer the latest tech-heavy features enticing the customer.
However, a significant roadblock to faster EV adoption lies in the challenges of home charging. Despite the growing interest in EVs, the lack of adequate home charging infrastructure is creating hurdles for potential buyers and leading to ‘charge anxiety’ taking over from ‘range anxiety’.
Power Load Issues and Infrastructure Limitations: Many Indian households are equipped with at best 3-5 kW power supply, which is insufficient for installing fast chargers. Upgrading the power supply not only involves additional costs but also increases electricity tariffs, making home charging less economical and defeating the debate of EVs being cheaper in the long run when compared with higher premiums vs. the ICE vehicles.
Charger Installation Challenges: Installing home chargers is not as straightforward as it seems. According to a report by Saur Energy, early adopters of EVs often face resistance from resident associations, even in luxury apartments. The lack of dedicated parking spaces further complicates the situation, as nearly 90% of Indian households do not have fixed parking spots. This makes it difficult to set up private charging stations, leaving EV owners reliant on pricey and unreliable public infrastructure.
Cost and Availability of Chargers: The cost of installing a home charger varies significantly based on its type and capacity. Basic AC chargers cost between ₹15,000 and ₹30,000, while fast DC chargers can go up to ₹50 lakh. These costs, coupled with the expenses of electrical and civil work, deter many potential EV buyers. Moreover, the availability of chargers is limited, with most options concentrated in urban areas.
Power Availability and Reliability: Power outages and inconsistent electricity supply are common issues in many parts of India. A recent study revealed that only 12,100 out of 25,000 installed public chargers were operational as of February 2024. This lack of reliability adds to the “charge anxiety” experienced by EV owners, making home charging the best option but often unviable.
The Way Forward: To overcome these barriers, a multi-pronged approach is essential. The policymakers, DISCOMS and the vehicle manufacturers must collaborate to upgrade the power grid and make fast chargers more affordable. Policies should encourage the installation of chargers in residential complexes, with incentives for housing societies, RWAs and residents. Additionally, innovative solutions like battery swapping and solar-powered chargers can provide alternatives to traditional home charging.
Public awareness campaigns are also crucial to dispel misconceptions about EVs and highlight the long-term benefits of electric mobility. By addressing these challenges, India can accelerate its transition to a greener future and make EVs accessible to a broader audience.
About the Author
Anirban is a journalist and editor tracking India’s EV ecosystem and its impact on the climate economy.
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