Approvals and permits for setting up a public charging station

Setting up a public charging station in India is simpler than many expect: charging is a de-licensed activity, so you do not need a licence to operate one. You do need a set of approvals, mostly around electricity and safety.

1. Electricity connection

Apply to your DISCOM for a new connection or a load increase in the EV charging tariff category. The Ministry of Power's 2024 guidelines set connection timelines that range from a few days in cities to longer in rural and difficult areas. Expect to submit a load calculation and single-line diagram.

2. Electrical safety inspection

Installations must follow the Central Electricity Authority's safety regulations. The state electrical inspectorate checks earthing, protection devices, cabling and emergency shut-off before the connection is energised.

3. Certified chargers

Chargers should meet the relevant Indian standards (the IS 17017 series) and testing requirements. See our guide to safety and certification standards.

4. Land and local body permissions

On private land, you need the owner's agreement and should check local building and zoning rules. On public land, you need permission from the local body or land-owning agency, often on a revenue-share basis. Highway sites must follow highway authority rules on setbacks, access and signage.

5. Fire safety

Some sites, such as fuel stations, malls and basements, need fire safety clearance or must follow National Building Code fire provisions. Check with your local fire authority.

6. Registration

Public chargers should be registered on the national EV charging database run by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (the EV Yatra portal), so drivers can find them and authorities can track the network. Your state nodal agency can advise on any state registration.

7. Pricing and display

Display charging prices clearly, including taxes, and follow any tariff or service charge rules set for your state.

A typical sequence

Site survey and load assessment.
DISCOM application.
Design and drawings.
Land and local permissions.
Civil and electrical works.
Electrical inspection.
Energisation and commissioning.
Registration and go-live.

We handle the paperwork

Requirements vary by state and site. EVee Buddy manages approvals as part of our turnkey projects, so you deal with one partner rather than several offices.

Sources

Figures as reported in the sources above at the time of writing. Schemes and rules change, so confirm current terms with the relevant ministry, your state nodal agency or DISCOM before making decisions.