Thiruvananthapuram: In a major push to accelerate electric vehicle mobility in Kerala, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has identified 340 locations across the state for setting up EV charging stations under the PM E-DRIVE project. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s national electric vehicle charging network and support the rapid growth of electric vehicles in Kerala.

Government departments and both central and state public sector undertakings have agreed to provide land for the upcoming EV charging centres. BSNL has offered 91 sites, while KSRTC and ISRO have also confirmed land availability, marking strong institutional support for Kerala’s electric mobility expansion.

Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, the Union Government is allocating ₹2,000 crore in subsidies to states to develop EV charging infrastructure. If Kerala’s proposal is fully approved, the state could receive up to ₹300 crore in subsidies. This funding will cover the complete cost of essential infrastructure, including power lines, transformers and modern charging equipment, at the identified sites.

As the nodal agency, KSEB will select contractors to develop and operate the EV charging stations. Income generated from the centres will be shared with the respective land-owning institutions, and those offering a higher share of revenue will receive priority in contract allocation. A second phase of the programme will extend charging facilities to private land as well, ensuring wider accessibility for EV users.

Kerala e-truck initiative announced

In a bid to transform freight movement in the state, KSEB has also rolled out the Kerala e-Truck Project. The board hopes that the expansion of EV charging stations on national highways and major freight routes will attract more electric cargo vehicles, promoting cleaner and more cost-efficient logistics.

With charging infrastructure expanding statewide, experts believe Kerala is on track to become one of India’s leading hubs for electric vehicle adoption, EV logistics and sustainable transportation.