Marking a significant stride in India’s electric mobility infrastructure, a state-of-the-art solar-powered EV charging hub has been launched near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Positioned strategically to serve thousands of daily airport commuters, the facility introduces a pioneering energy model that merges clean solar generation with second-life battery storage.
The charging station is equipped with a 45-kilowatt solar system and a robust 100 kWh battery bank made from repurposed electric vehicle batteries. This configuration ensures around-the-clock charging availability by storing solar power generated during the day and supplying it to vehicles on demand—creating a closed-loop, emission-free energy solution.
With 23 charging bays—18 offering fast charging and 5 with standard chargers—the hub is designed to meet the high-volume needs of ride-hailing services, airport cabs, and individual EV users who frequently travel between the city and airport.
Developed through a partnership between Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) and the German international development agency GIZ, the station is being hailed as a landmark in sustainable infrastructure design. According to officials, it is the first large-scale Indian EV station to integrate second-life EV batteries for solar energy storage.
Inaugurated by Energy Minister KJ George and Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, the facility underscores Karnataka’s ongoing investment in electric vehicle readiness. The ministers emphasized that this installation reflects the state’s long-term commitment to clean mobility and its intent to stay ahead in India’s transition to sustainable transport.
Karnataka, already recognized as an early adopter of EV policy since 2017, now leads the country in EV infrastructure deployment. With nearly 6,000 charging stations statewide and more than 75% concentrated in Bengaluru urban—the state remains a model for EV integration across sectors.
The new hub is expected to ease range anxiety for commuters, reduce dependence on grid electricity, and highlight the potential of circular battery use in public infrastructure.
As India accelerates its transition toward a low-carbon future, initiatives like this charging station demonstrate how localized innovation can meet both climate goals and urban mobility needs.
