Use of EVs going up steadily: Consumption at public chargers rises by 72%

Electric vehicle (EV) consumption at public charging stations in India surged by over 72% in the financial year 2025-26, signaling a growing trend of EV adoption as the nation transitions towards greener energy. According to data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), public chargers consumed 848 million units (MU) of electricity in the previous financial year, which rose to 1,460 MU in the current year.

Of the total electricity consumed, over 74% was used by heavy-duty chargers powering electric buses, trucks, high-capacity passenger coaches, and commercial fleet vehicles. Light and medium personal and commercial e-vehicles accounted for 26% of the electricity consumption. Heavy-duty and medium and light vehicles consumed 70% and 30%, respectively, in FY25.

However, the data lacks information on public chargers in several northeastern states and some union territories due to unavailability of relevant information from power distribution companies in those regions. The CEA emphasizes the need for such data to evaluate the growth of a dependable EV charging infrastructure, guarantee energy security, and lessen emission intensity, allowing for required policy actions.

Additionally, the information is crucial for forecasting energy demand, planning distribution systems, and integrated resource planning across the country. In terms of geographical distribution, Maharashtra topped the list with 378 MU, or 26% of India's total electricity consumption at PCS, followed by Delhi (359 MU), Karnataka (213 MU), and Telangana (111 MU).

The Indian government's efforts to promote EV adoption to promote a cleaner environment and attain its net-zero emissions objective by 2070 have been instrumental in the surge in EV sales. In 2025, India's total EV sales surpassed 2.5 million units, representing a robust 24.6% year-on-year growth and contributing nearly 8.5% of all new vehicle registrations.

This growth is primarily driven by the expanding two-wheeler, three-wheeler, and passenger vehicle segments.