The government has ruled that every new petrol pump (fuel station) must have an electric vehicle charging station. It’s also stated that while renewing the license for operating a petrol pump, existing ones must also build one charging station as far as feasible. The move comes as the government seeks to ensure higher electricity consumption within the country and promote eco-friendly transport.
Approving the action plan of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI), the cabinet has sent the ruling to concerned agencies for its implementation. The ministry had enlisted the need for a charging station at every petrol pump in its action plan.
A huge mass has grown in Nepal who want to switch to electric vehicles. The trend is reflected in the growing volume of electric cars, electric bikes, and scooters being imported into Nepal every single year. However, the industry is still handicapped by the lack of charging stations across Nepal. Although a few manufacturers such as BYD have strategically established EV charging stations in various locations, the numbers are too low to accommodate the trend.
Efforts to increase the number of EV charging stations in Nepal
Currently, there are an estimated 10,000 EVs plying the roads but not even 200 charging stations.
NEA has brought 51 charging stations across Nepal and is installing 14 new ones. But they are subject to malfunction with many already requiring maintenance. The private ventures have brought 81 charging stations into operation. Likewise, APF is also contributing to adding more charging stations.
This is why, the federal government has made a policy-level provision that could dramatically increase the EV charging stations in the next few years. But there is not enough of them.
In its report, the ministry has encouraged the government to promote electric vehicles. Likewise, it called for the provision to convert fuel-based vehicles into electric. Hotels, supermarkets, shopping malls, and highways, shall also have charging stations, the ministry proposed. Read next: Why You Should Buy an Electric Vehicle in Nepal?
In its report, the ministry also said that the private sector will be encouraged to operate EV charging stations by affording them land on lease or rent at a cheaper rate.
Electric vehicles are becoming common the the roads but are still plagued by the number of charging stations, especially along the highways for long trips. Do you think this decision will play a remarkable role in promoting EVs in Nepal? Share your opinion with us in the comments below.
