Key Points
- India’s Largest EV Charging Hub: Kolkata is set to host India’s largest single-site EV charging hub with 300 chargers, making it the second-largest globally after China’s 650-charger facility.
- Operational by August 2025: The hub, located in Thakurpukur, South Kolkata, is expected to be fully operational by August 2025, just in time for Durga Puja celebrations.
- Sustainable Energy Solutions: The facility will incorporate solar panels and a microgrid to generate 40% of its energy needs sustainably, reducing reliance on conventional power sources.
- Boost to EV Infrastructure: This project marks a significant milestone in India’s transition to green mobility and supports the growing demand for electric vehicles.
Kolkata: Kolkata is gearing up to revolutionize India’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape with the construction of the nation’s largest single-site EV charging hub. Located in the Thakurpukur area of South Kolkata, this ambitious project will feature 300 chargers, making it the second-largest EV charging facility in the world after China’s 650-charger hub. The initiative is a significant step forward in strengthening India’s e-mobility infrastructure.
A Landmark Project for India
The upcoming EV charging hub is being developed by EzUrja on a two-acre site that was previously an abandoned PSU Andrew Yule & Co. plant. With an estimated cost of ₹7.5 crore, the facility is expected to be operational by August 2025, coinciding with Durga Puja celebrations. This hub will cater primarily to Snap-E, an all-electric app-based cab service, while also serving private and commercial EVs.
Advanced Features and Sustainability
The charging station will include both slow and fast chargers with capacity loads of up to 120 kWh. Approximately 20% of the chargers will be fast chargers, ensuring quick turnaround times for vehicles. The hub’s total load capacity will be 6 MW, supported by innovative sustainability measures:
- Solar Panels: Integrated into the facility to harness renewable energy.
- Microgrid Technology: Designed to generate 40% of the hub’s energy needs locally, reducing its carbon footprint.
- Battery Storage: Ensures reliable energy supply even during peak usage.
These features make the Kolkata hub not only a massive infrastructure project but also a model for eco-friendly development.
India’s Growing EV Market
This project comes at a time when India’s EV market is experiencing unprecedented growth. In 2024 alone:
- 19,49,114 EV Units Sold: A record-breaking year with an average of 5,325 vehicles sold daily.
- 27% Growth Over 2023: Sales jumped from 15,32,389 units in 2023.
- Segment Highlights:
- Two-wheelers accounted for 59% of total sales.
- Electric buses saw a remarkable 59% increase in sales.
- Passenger vehicles registered a 22% growth.
The rising demand for EVs underscores the urgent need for robust charging infrastructure across the country.
Global Perspective
While India’s largest EV charging hub will soon be in Kolkata, it still trails behind China’s massive facility with double the capacity. However, this project places India firmly on the global map of e-mobility innovation. Previously, Gurugram held the title for India’s largest single-site charging station with 160 chargers; Kolkata’s new hub surpasses this by nearly double.
Future Expansion Plans
EzUrja is not stopping at Kolkata. The company plans to expand its EV infrastructure along the 250-km Kolkata-Asansol highway by installing ten EV charging stations with capacities of up to 240 kWh each for electric buses. These stations will enhance interstate travel and further bolster West Bengal’s e-mobility capabilities.
Additionally, EzUrja is exploring opportunities for another large-scale charging hub within Kolkata itself as part of its broader vision for sustainable transportation solutions.
Impact on India’s Green Mobility Goals
The upcoming EV charging hub in Kolkata represents a monumental step towards achieving India’s green mobility goals outlined in its National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP). By promoting widespread adoption of electric vehicles through accessible and reliable infrastructure:
- India reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Greenhouse gas emissions are minimized.
- Urban air quality improves significantly.
This project serves as a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at integrating renewable energy solutions into large-scale infrastructure projects.
Kolkata’s new EV charging hub is more than just a facility it symbolizes India’s commitment to sustainable development and its readiness to embrace green mobility. As electric vehicle adoption continues to surge nationwide, projects like this will play a pivotal role in transforming India’s transportation landscape while contributing positively to global environmental efforts.
