For millions of Indians dreaming of EVs, the apartment parking lot is where the dream dies. Most housing societies say no to charging points, fear fire hazards, or argue over wiring and bills. But a few pioneering Bangalore communities have shown—it doesn’t have to be this way.
The Pain: Why Apartment Dwellers Struggle With EV Charging
RWAs say “No”: Most Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in Bengaluru and other cities worry about fire safety, electricity theft, or “who pays for what”.
Old Myths: They fear drilled-walls, climbing bills, and “ruined aesthetics.”
Lack of Precedent: Until recently, few apartments had clear policies or technical know-how.
The Breakthrough: New Rules (& Real Solutions) in Karnataka
KERC’s 2024 Mandate Changed Everything
Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) now makes it easier than ever for apartment residents to install EV chargers:
You CAN install a home charger in your allotted parking spot, tapping your existing sanctioned load—or by legally enhancing it.
No RWA can arbitrarily ban you if you follow load capacity rules and required safety/structural guidelines.
Real Bangalore Success Story: Community Charging That Works
A Bengaluru apartment complex in Singasandra (Metropolis Gurukrupa) shows what’s possible:
They installed a community charging station with six ports in March 2022.
Management worked with BESCOM and a charging company to size up sanctioned load and integrate smart metering for fair billing.
Today, about 20 non-resident EV owners use the chargers monthly—even delivery partners drop by.
No fire incidents, power fights, or “ruined” parking lots.
“With the number of EVs growing, it is important to facilitate charging that is both safe and efficient,” says a resident.
The Blueprint: How You Can Convince Your Society
Point to the KERC Order: Show your RWA that individual installation is your right if you follow state rules.
Present the Safety Facts: Use certified electricians, company-backed hardware, and follow load standards.
Suggest a Community Charger: Propose a shared AC charger in the common parking area first; much lower cost, and everyone benefits.
Offer a Ready Solution: Companies like Bolt.Earth or Tata Power can audit, install, meter, and maintain.
Payment Models: Get pre-paid or smart-postpaid metering—no “free loading” or fights.
Apply for Sanctioned Load Enhancement: If needed, the process is streamlined by BESCOM and local utilities.
Propose Revenue Generation: Societies can earn from outsiders (delivery, cabs) for charging, helping offset costs.
Ready-Made Email Template to Your RWA
Subject: Request for EV Charging Installation – As Per KERC Guidelines
Dear [Society Manager/RWA], As per the latest KERC notification (Aug 2024), resident EV owners are fully permitted to install charging points in their parking spots, tapping sanctioned or enhanced loads. Our society can even set up shared chargers for community and visitor use, which existing vendors can manage safely. I urge our committee to discuss this and move forward together. Regards, [Your Name & Flat Number]
What To Watch Out For
Old complexes may need electrical upgrades for heavy charging loads—common in cities like Bangalore and Mumbai.
RWA objections must be countered with facts, rules, and real-world examples.
Document all permissions and stick with branded, certified installers.
The Hope: Changing India’s EV Conversation
If one Bengaluru apartment can solve the charging nightmare, yours can too. Take this article, show it to your RWA WhatsApp group, and be the agent of change.
With the right facts and a united pitch, everyone in your complex—with an EV or not—can benefit from cleaner, more convenient mobility.
Bookmark VeCharged.com/in/ for more real-world Indian EV playbooks and hands-on guides. Tag a neighbor who needs this!
