Bhutan Sustainable low-emission Urban Transport System Project launched 25 Electric Vehicle (EV) public charging stations yesterday. The charging stations have been installed in 15 different locations in Haa, Paro, Punakha, Phuentshogling, Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang. The project started in 2019 aims to replace 300 fossil fuel-driven taxis with EV taxis by next year.
“In a way, we are relying on the taxi drivers to demonstrate and we want them to be the ambassador to promote electric cars in the country,” said Phub Gyaltshen, the Project Manager of EV Project.
One charging station can charge two cars. Of the 25 charging stations, 15 are DC (direct current) charging stations that enable fast charging while the rest are AC (Alternating Current) charging stations which are semi-fast charging stations.
The project will roll out around 30 EV cars next month.
“We are expecting almost 28 cars next month or so. More than 100 taxi drivers are already shortlisted. Once the patches are clear, we are going to place orders for 100 plus cars. With this, we are hoping more people who are not convinced to take up electronic mobility would be now changing their mindset and willing to go for E-mobility,” said Nawaraj Chhetri, the Portfolio Analyst of UNDP.
Bhutan also aims to reduce 43,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emission by next year through the project.
“The Green House Gas emission directly relates to the kilometres you cover. The more you cover, the lesser or the more emission you are going to reduce,” added Nawaraj.
The project provides a 20 per cent subsidy grant which translates to US dollars 5,500 on purchase of every electric vehicle taxi.
Meanwhile, Nu 69 M has been allocated to install charging stations in the remaining districts in the next fiscal year. There are more than 140 electric vehicles in the country today.
Kelzang Choden
