Is TN Tendering for 9 New EV Charging Stations in Chennai Amid Tariff Woes?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited has announced a tender for developing nine EV charging stations in Chennai. This initiative, amidst rising tariff concerns, aims to enhance public electric vehicle infrastructure while addressing sustainability challenges. Discover the implications and details of this significant move for the future of EVs in Tamil Nadu.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu is expanding its EV charging infrastructure with nine new stations.
- The project will follow a public-private partnership model.
- Operators face challenges due to increased electricity tariffs.
- Each location will feature a minimum of three chargers.
- Industry stakeholders are advocating for lower tariffs and no fixed charges.
Chennai, Aug 14 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) has issued a call for proposals to establish public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at nine key locations within the boundaries of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) through a Build, Own and Operate (BOO) model.
The initiative is structured as a public-private partnership, where the chosen charge point operator will be responsible for the design, engineering, supply, installation, commissioning, and long-term operation and maintenance of the charging stations.
Each site is required to feature a minimum of three chargers—one specifically for light EVs like two- and three-wheelers, and two 22kW AC chargers for four-wheelers, adhering to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Power.
Operators have the option to install up to five chargers at each location. The identified charging stations will be located in parking facilities at Ashtalakshmi Temple, Besant Nagar Beach, Mangal Lake Park (Ambattur), Corporation Playground (T. Nagar), Somasundaram Ground (T. Nagar), Semmozhi Poonga (Cathedral Road), Marina Beach, Bougainvillea Park (Anna Nagar), and Nageswar Rao Park (Mylapore).
The GCC will provide the necessary land, and the successful bidder will compensate TNGECL a predetermined fee for each unit of electricity sold. The contract will be awarded to the highest bidder for a duration of 10 years.
However, this tender is being introduced amidst growing concerns in the industry over recent hikes in electricity tariffs. Operators argue that these increases have rendered high-capacity public charging stations financially impractical, given current usage levels.
According to the latest tariff regulations, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) has raised fixed monthly fees for EV charging stations in the LT–VII category (50–112 kW) from Rs 79/kW to Rs 165/kW. Moreover, for stations exceeding 112 kW under the HT–V category, monthly demand fees have escalated from Rs 145/kVA to Rs 304/kVA.
Operators highlight that Tamil Nadu now imposes the highest fixed charges nationwide for EV charging stations. For instance, in states like Kerala, Delhi, and Maharashtra, fixed charges are non-existent, while Karnataka and other regions maintain significantly lower rates.
Furthermore, TN charges Rs 9.75 per unit for LT connections, contrasting sharply with Rs 4.50 in Delhi and Rs 4 for HT connections. Industry representatives are advocating for a reduction in tariffs and the elimination of fixed charges, asserting that such reforms are vital for fostering investment in public EV infrastructure and accelerating adoption in the region.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of this initiative by TNGECL. While the establishment of new EV charging stations is a positive step towards promoting electric mobility, the rising electricity tariffs pose a significant hurdle. It is crucial for the government to address these concerns to ensure sustainable growth in the EV sector.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the locations for the new EV charging stations in Chennai?
The EV charging stations will be established at Ashtalakshmi Temple, Besant Nagar Beach, Mangal Lake Park (Ambattur), Corporation Playground (T. Nagar), Somasundaram Ground (T. Nagar), Semmozhi Poonga (Cathedral Road), Marina Beach, Bougainvillea Park (Anna Nagar), and Nageswar Rao Park (Mylapore).
What is the payment structure for the winning bidder?
The winning bidder will pay TNGECL a fixed amount for every unit of electricity sold, with the highest quoted rate securing a contract for 10 years.
What are the recent tariff changes affecting EV charging stations?
The Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission has increased fixed monthly charges significantly for EV charging stations, making it challenging for operators to maintain profitability.
How many chargers will be installed at each location?
Each location must have at least three chargers: one for light EVs and two 22kW AC chargers for four-wheelers. Operators can install up to five chargers per site.
What is the current situation regarding EV charging tariffs in Tamil Nadu?
Tamil Nadu currently has the highest fixed charges for EV charging stations in India, leading to concerns among operators about the viability of their investments.
