In a significant move towards advancing India’s electric mobility and green energy goals, Karnataka has inaugurated the country’s first solar-powered integrated electric vehicle (EV) charging hub near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Launched on June 2, 2025, by State Energy Minister KJ George, this initiative strengthens Karnataka’s leadership in EV infrastructure development. The strategically placed facility is expected to greatly ease the EV charging burden for thousands of airport taxis and public electric vehicle users. The location near one of the country’s busiest airports makes it a critical addition to Bengaluru’s already robust EV ecosystem. By combining renewable energy, battery recycling, and fast-charging capabilities, Karnataka sets a new benchmark for other Indian states to follow.

Powered by the Sun: Innovative Second-Life Battery System

What truly sets this hub apart is its reliance on solar energy and second-life battery technology. The station features a 45 kW solar power system coupled with a 100 kWh second-life battery storage unit, which stores solar energy harvested during the day for use 24/7. This not only reduces dependency on the grid but also enhances sustainability by repurposing used EV batteries. According to BESCOM (Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company Limited), the project was developed in partnership with the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), highlighting international collaboration in India’s clean energy mission. The facility includes 23 EV charging points—18 fast chargers and 5 slow chargers—catering to various user needs efficiently. BESCOM proudly declares it as India’s first commercial centre for second-life battery applications in the EV charging segment.

Affordable Charging with Smart Tech Integration

One of the most appreciated features of this new EV hub is its affordability and tech-driven interface. With a charging rate between Rs 7.02 and Rs 7.83 per unit—significantly cheaper than private charging operators—BESCOM offers economic relief to daily EV commuters. Users can locate the station, check availability, and pay via WhatsApp or through the ‘EV Mitra’ app, which also provides real-time status updates. This seamless integration of technology not only enhances user experience but also reflects Karnataka’s forward-thinking approach in simplifying EV adoption. By lowering costs and making the process digital, the state is encouraging more drivers, especially commercial cab operators, to switch to electric vehicles without worrying about accessibility or high operating expenses.

Karnataka: Leading India’s EV Infrastructure Growth

This development further reinforces Karnataka’s position as a pioneer in India’s EV revolution. The state introduced the country’s first EV policy back in 2017 and has since led in deploying public EV charging stations. As per data from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Karnataka now boasts 5,880 public charging stations, with an overwhelming 4,462 located in Bengaluru Urban alone. In 2025 itself, 140 new chargers have been added, confirming the state’s aggressive push for clean transportation. Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda emphasized the importance of this facility given that nearly 10,000 cabs operate daily around the airport—many of which are electric. This infrastructure investment directly supports the daily energy needs of these vehicles, making EV commuting more practical and accessible than ever.

A Model for India’s Green Energy Future

Karnataka’s solar-powered EV hub is not just a regional success but a model of what India’s future EV infrastructure could look like. By integrating clean energy, battery lifecycle management, digital access, and affordability in one facility, the state has demonstrated how thoughtful policy and public-private cooperation can yield impactful results. As other states look to expand their EV networks, this project offers a roadmap—one that is efficient, scalable, and environmentally conscious. With growing climate concerns and rising fuel costs, the transition to electric vehicles powered by renewable energy is not only necessary but inevitable. Karnataka’s latest move brings the country one step closer to that future—cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable.

Get the latest in business, markets, startups, and policy—visit businessnewsindia.in for in-depth updates and follow us on Instagram @businessnewsindia.in for daily bites of what matters most.

Source : businesstoday.in