PM E-DRIVE Scheme: Draft Guidelines Issued for EV Charging Infrastructure Developmen
PM E-DRIVE Scheme: The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has unveiled draft guidelines for setting up extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure under the Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme. The initiative aims to bolster India's EV ecosystem with a planned investment of ₹2,000 crore.
Extensive Charging Network
Over 22,000 EV chargers for electric four-wheelers (e-4Ws).
1,800 chargers for electric buses (e-buses).
Charging stations for light EVs, including electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws) and three-wheelers (e-3Ws).
Stakeholder Participation:
The scheme emphasizes collaboration among charge point operators, EV charger manufacturers, state governments, urban local bodies, central ministries, discoms, highway authorities, and CPSEs.
Subsidy Provisions
Up to 80% subsidy on upstream infrastructure (behind-the-meter infrastructure).
In exceptional cases, 100% funding may be approved for project costs, including upstream power infrastructure.
Role of State and Central Ministries
The guidelines encourage state governments and central ministries to conduct feasibility studies to identify strategic locations for charging stations. Site selection will focus on factors like traffic patterns, accessibility, power supply, and potential grid upgrades.
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
Ministry of Railways
Ministry of Civil Aviation
Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
Ministry of Power
Approval Process
Proposals will be evaluated by a technical committee chaired by an Additional/Joint Secretary of MHI, with members from NITI Aayog, Ministry of Power, and ARAI. Shortlisted projects will be reviewed by the Project Implementation and Sanctioning Committee (PISC) before final approval.
Incentive Calculation and Disbursement
The subsidy will be determined based on the benchmark upstream cost (per kW) established by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The incentive will be disbursed in three instalments:
30% after tender issuance.
40% after EVSE deployment as per bid documents.
30% after successful commercial operation of the charging stations.
Upstream infrastructure assets will remain under the ownership of the respective discoms.
Impact of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme
The initiative aims to accelerate EV adoption by creating a robust and accessible charging network, ensuring seamless integration with urban and highway infrastructure. It also aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable mobility and reducing carbon emissions.
