In a strategic move aligned with the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation, BPCL intends to deploy charging infrastructure at 7,000 of its 19,000 petrol stations across India by December 2024. The company’s initial focus will be on strategic locations including highways and cities that have been prioritized by the Indian government’s mobility agenda.
The rollout plan encompasses the installation of fast charging stations along highways, strategically positioned at intervals of approximately 100 kilometres in both directions. This strategic approach aims to ensure convenient access to fast charging options for EV users during their journeys. Presently, BPCL has already operationalized 80 out of the planned 400 fast charging sites along highways. Moreover, the company currently operates a total of 747 charging stations alongside 13 battery exchange stations.
Arun Kumar Singh, the Chairman & Managing Director of Bharat Petroleum, highlighted the company’s long-term vision, stating, “Over the next few years, we are aiming at reaching the count of 7,000 stations to support the growing EV industry and these stations would be known as ‘Energy Stations’. EV charging infrastructure is one of the five focused segments that BPCL is working on along with Petchem, Gas, Consumer Retailing, Renewables & Biofuels that will serve the energy needs of the nation.”
This endeavor aligns with a broader context, as in March, the Indian government granted approximately 90 million euros to petroleum companies, including Indian Oil (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL). The grant is intended to facilitate the establishment of nearly 7,500 new public DC charging points by March 2024. This strategic funding underscores the Indian government’s commitment to fostering a robust EV charging infrastructure across the nation.
As BPCL positions itself at the forefront of this transformative shift towards sustainable mobility solutions, the company’s efforts to establish a comprehensive network of “Energy Stations” could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s transportation sector. With a holistic approach that integrates conventional fuels and EV charging, BPCL’s endeavor reflects the industry’s response to the dynamic needs of both current and future vehicle owners, while contributing to the nation’s broader energy goals.
