In a major move to bolster the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs) and cater to the increasing demand for public transport charging facilities, China’s State Council, the country’s cabinet and chief administrative authority, has released a comprehensive document outlining its plans to extend NEV charging infrastructure nationwide by 2030. 

The document highlights the need to expedite the resolution of shortcomings in the road network charging infrastructure while encouraging the participation of various stakeholders and promoting innovative financing support from development financial institutions.

The aim of the proposed system is to provide extensive NEV charging coverage, with a moderate scale, a reasonable structure, and complete functionality. Such a robust infrastructure will serve as a strong foundation to support the rapid growth of the new energy vehicle industry. Moreover, it will effectively address the charging needs of the population, ensuring convenient and reliable charging options for electric vehicle owners across the country.

The council document states that efforts will be directed toward establishing an effective charging network in rural areas. The construction of public DC fast charging stations in urban areas of county-level cities will be actively promoted. The planning and layout of charging networks in large villages, towns, relocation areas, and key rural tourism spots will be accelerated. Additionally, the deployment of charging networks in township agencies, enterprises, institutions, commercial buildings, transportation hubs, stations, public parking lots, and logistics bases will be vigorously promoted.

The council has planned for the establishment of a well-structured urban charging network in China. It will rely on the existing urban road traffic system, prioritizing two districts (residential and office areas) and three centers (commercial, industrial, and leisure centers). The objective is to expand the network from the central city to the outskirts, gradually covering priority development areas and other regions. Integrated planning, construction, and management of charging infrastructure and parking facilities will be actively promoted to achieve comprehensive coverage across various city parking scenes.

The document, which lays out the roadmap for this ambitious endeavor, highlights the significance of expanding the charging infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of both private and public transportation. By providing convenient and accessible charging facilities, China intends to encourage the widespread adoption of NEVs, thereby contributing to a greener and more environmentally friendly transport system.

To facilitate the expansion of the charging infrastructure, local authorities will be encouraged to allocate space for construction projects and provide subsidies. This proactive approach aims to incentivize public and private entities to actively participate in the development of charging facilities. In line with this, companies will be welcomed to contribute by introducing innovative business models, such as shared charging and mobile charging services, which can further enhance the utilization of the charging network.

The ambitious charging infrastructure plan represents China’s commitment to sustainable transportation and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles. By addressing the challenge of limited charging availability, the government aims to propel the widespread adoption of NEVs, playing a crucial role in the country’s efforts to achieve greener and more environmentally friendly mobility.

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