Electric vehicles (EVs) are accelerating the green revolution in India, and Tamil Nadu is riding this wave with a significant increase in electricity consumption by public EV charging stations. According to the Central Electricity Authority, Tamil Nadu’s public EV charging stations consumed 16.17 million units (MU) of electricity in the financial year 2024-2025, marking a 20.8% rise from 13.38 MU in 2023-2024.
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How Tamil Nadu Compares Nationally
Despite this impressive growth, This state still trails behind some other Indian states in EV charging electricity consumption. Delhi leads the pack with a staggering 328.03 MU, followed by Maharashtra (216.82 MU), Karnataka (79.61 MU), and Gujarat (64.11 MU). This data highlights the potential for Tamil Nadu to further expand its EV infrastructure and adoption.
| State | Electricity Consumption by Public EV Charging Stations (MU) 2024-25 |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 328.03 |
| Maharashtra | 216.82 |
| Karnataka | 79.61 |
| Gujarat | 64.11 |
| Tamil Nadu | 16.17 |
EV Penetration in Tamil Nadu
The state recorded total EV sales of 76,359 units in 2024-25, with an overall penetration rate of 3.94%. Breaking it down by vehicle type, two-wheelers lead with 4.12% penetration, three-wheelers follow at 14.27%, and four-wheelers stand at 1.65%.
Challenges in Tamil Nadu’s EV Charging Infrastructure
Industry experts point to higher electricity tariffs in Tamil Nadu as a key challenge for EV charging infrastructure growth. Ragavendra Ravichandran, co-founder and COO of Plugzmart, a Chennai-based EV charger manufacturer, notes that the fixed and variable electricity tariffs are higher compared to other states, impacting the cost-effectiveness of charging stations.
Sriram J, senior manager at Bolt.Earth, echoes this concern but also highlights improvements brought by the Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Ltd., which actively seeks feedback from charging operators to address these challenges.
The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Recommendations
Archit Fursule, research associate at Climate Trends, emphasizes that Tamil Nadu must prioritize expanding its charging infrastructure, offer incentives to consumers and manufacturers, and boost public awareness about EV benefits to strengthen its position in the EV market.
He adds that collaboration among stakeholders and aligning EV incentives with sustainability goals will further cement Tamil Nadu’s commitment to a green transition. The state’s proactive approach to renewable energy integration positions it well to meet the growing electricity demand from EVs.
Policy Insights
A recent report by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) titled ‘Electric Vehicle Public Charging Infrastructure: 2030 Roadmap’ highlights the wide variability in electricity tariffs across states. It recommends moving towards a single, consistent tariff structure nationwide to support EV infrastructure growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s 20% surge in electricity consumption by public EV charging stations in 2024-25 signals a promising shift towards electric mobility. While the state faces challenges like higher electricity tariffs, proactive measures, strategic policy alignment, and stakeholder collaboration can pave the way for significant EV adoption and a greener future. By addressing these hurdles and capitalizing on its renewable energy potential, Tamil Nadu can solidify its position as a leader in India’s EV revolution.
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