Karnataka launches solar-powered integrated EV charging hub near Bengaluru airport

EV charging hub near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.

Karnataka on June 2 unveiled a solar-powered integrated EV charging hub near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.

Karnataka energy minister KJ George inaugurated the facility, which also serves as a hub for second-life battery applications

“This facility marks a significant milestone in Karnataka’s efforts to strengthen its electric vehicle infrastructure, which already leads the nation with the highest number of public charging stations. This will greatly benefit cab drivers and the general public using electric vehicles,” said George.

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“BIAL EV Hub, a pioneering initiative, is India’s first commercial application centre for second-life battery systems. This charging facility, equipped with a 45 kW solar power system and boasting a 100 kWh second-life battery storage capacity, is a testament to India’s commitment to sustainable energy. It features 23 charging points—18 fast chargers and five slow chargers—designed to efficiently meet the needs of electric vehicle users,” said a statement from Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM).

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He added, “This large EV charging hub, set up by BESCOM and German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), can charge 23 vehicles at once. Solar power stored in old car batteries during the day powers EVs round the clock,”.

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BESCOM, the nodal agency for EV charging infrastructure in Karnataka, has played a key role in the state's rapid EV adoption. “The surge in electric vehicle usage—especially by airport taxis—has led to increased demand for charging facilities around Kempegowda International Airport,” the agency said.

According to data from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Union Ministry of Power, Karnataka—India’s first state to introduce an EV policy in 2017—currently leads the country in the number of public EV charging stations. It is followed by Maharashtra, Delhi, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. These figures include stations established by both private companies and public sector undertakings.

“Karnataka leads in EV infrastructure with 5,880 charging stations, including 4,462 in Bengaluru Urban. This year alone, 140 new chargers were added,” George said.

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N Shivashankar, BESCOM Managing Director, said this is the country’s first EV station with 24/7 charging. It features a 45 KW solar system, 100 KWH second-life battery storage, and 23 points—18 fast and five slow chargers. BESCOM’s rates are 2–3 times lower than private providers. “Users can check station details on the ‘EV Mitra’ app or scan the QR code at the site to pay via WhatsApp,” he added. The charging tariff is Rs 7.02 per unit for AC-001, Rs 7.16 for DC-001, and Rs 7.83 for CCS-2.

“It’s a matter of pride that a new EV charging station has come up near Bengaluru airport, benefiting cab drivers and EV users. With around 10,000 cabs operating daily—many of them electric—this facility shows Karnataka’s continued leadership in EV initiatives,” said Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda.