The Complete Guide to Installing EV Chargers at Your Hotel

Introduction

If you're a hotel owner reading this, you've probably been thinking about EV chargers for one of three reasons: your competitors have them, you want to strengthen your green credentials, or you believe electric vehicles are the future. All valid reasons—but here's what we've learned from working with dozens of hotels across India: the journey from decision to successful implementation is far more nuanced than most people expect.

This guide is designed to walk you through the entire process with honesty and clarity. We'll cover not just the "how," but also the "why," the "how much," and critically, the "what could go wrong." Because when it comes to EV charging infrastructure at hotels, the devil really is in the details.

Why Hotels Should Care About EV Charging

The EV revolution in India is accelerating faster than ever. As of December 2025, India has approximately 39,485 public EV charging stations nationwide—a remarkable growth from just 29,000 in early 2024. The government aims to deploy 72,000 fast chargers by FY 2025-26 under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, with a vision of reaching one million charging points by 2030.

Electric vehicle sales are surging too. In 2025 alone, India's EV retail sales jumped 77% year-on-year, with 176,817 electric cars sold and total EV registrations across all segments surpassing 2.02 million units. The government has set ambitious targets: 30% EV penetration by 2030 across all vehicle categories.

The hospitality sector is taking notice. Leading hotel chain IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited) now operates 343 EV charging stations across 142 properties as of their 2023-24 sustainability report published in October 2025—a significant expansion from their initial 224 stations across 92 properties. Other major brands like WelcomHeritage and BWH Hotels India continue to expand their charging networks across the country.

But here's the reality check: EV chargers at hotels are primarily an amenity, not a revenue generator—at least not in the short term. Understanding this upfront will save you from unrealistic expectations and help you make better decisions about what to install and why.

The Current Landscape (2025–2026)

Leading states in EV charging infrastructure

• Karnataka: ~5,880 stations
• Maharashtra: ~3,746 stations
• Delhi: ~1,951 stations (planning 7,000 more by end of 2026)
• Tamil Nadu: ~1,524 stations
• Uttar Pradesh: ~2,137 stations

Key market dynamics

• The EV-to-charger ratio in India is currently 1:235 (improving from 1:400 in 2023)
• Fast DC chargers account for only 20–35% of total charging infrastructure
• The PM E-DRIVE scheme has allocated ₹2,000 crore specifically for public charging stations
• The Indian EV market is projected to reach USD 31.09 billion by 2026

Stage 1: Planning—Getting Your Expectations Right

The Common Mistakes

Most hotels decide to install EV chargers because:

• A competitor property down the road has them
• It looks good on sustainability reports
• There's an assumption that "EV demand is coming"

What's often missing:

• Actual assessment of current EV guest footfall
• Location viability analysis (are you on a highway route? In a metro city? In a tier-2 town?)
• Realistic utilization projections

What You Should Do Instead

Before you contact a single vendor, answer these questions honestly:

1. How many EV-driving guests do you currently serve per month?
   Track this for at least 2–3 months. Ask at check-in, monitor parking lot activity, check your booking patterns.
2. What's your location profile?
   • Highway route hotel: Higher pass-through traffic, good for DC fast charging
   • City center business hotel: Moderate overnight charging needs, AC chargers may suffice
   • Resort/leisure destination: Longer guest stays, AC charging works well
   • Tier-2/3 city hotel: Lower EV penetration, start small
3. What's your real objective?
   • Pure amenity for guest satisfaction: Budget accordingly, don't expect ROI
   • Revenue generation: You'll need high utilization and the right pricing model
   • CSR/branding: One or two chargers might be enough
   • Future-proofing: Plan for scalability from day one

Pro Tip: Hotels that start with data-driven assessment rather than competitive pressure make far better charger choices and avoid buyer's remorse.

Stage 2: Understanding EV Charger Types

There's a lot of jargon in the EV charging space. Let's cut through it.

AC Chargers (Slow to Moderate Speed)

Common configurations: 7.4 kW, 11 kW, 22 kW

Charging time for a typical 60–70 kWh battery:

• 7.4 kW: ~8–10 hours (overnight charging)
• 11 kW: ~5–7 hours (half-day to overnight)
• 22 kW: ~3–4 hours (few hours)

Best for:

• Hotels where guests stay overnight
• Resorts with longer guest stays
• Properties where EV users can leave their car plugged in for several hours

Cost: Lower upfront cost, minimal infrastructure requirements

DC Fast Chargers (Rapid Charging)

Common configurations: 60 kW, 120 kW, 180 kW

Charging time for a typical 60–70 kWh battery:

• 60 kW: ~45–60 minutes (0–80%)
• 120 kW: ~25–35 minutes (0–80%)
• 180 kW: ~15–25 minutes (0–80%)

Best for:

• Highway hotels with pass-through traffic
• Hotels targeting quick turnaround charging
• Properties willing to make a significant investment for premium guest experience

Cost: High upfront cost, substantial infrastructure requirements

The Reality Check

Most hotels in India should start with AC chargers (11 kW or 22 kW). Here's why:

• DC fast chargers cost 2–5x more than AC chargers
• The electrical infrastructure for DC (power sanction, transformer upgrades) can cost as much as the charger itself
• Unless you have very high EV guest throughput, DC chargers sit idle most of the time
• AC charging works perfectly fine for overnight hotel stays
  
  Stage 3: The Total Cost Question

This is where most hotels experience "sticker shock."

What Hotels Expect

"The vendor quoted ₹X for the charger, so that's my budget."

What Actually Happens

The total project cost ends up being 2–3x the charger price.

The Full Cost Breakdown

1. Charger Hardware (the quoted price you see)

2. Power Infrastructure:

• Load enhancement approval from DISCOM (if existing sanctioned load is insufficient)
• Transformer upgrades (common requirement for DC chargers)
• Heavy-duty cabling from transformer/distribution board to charger location
• Electrical panels and breakers
• Earthing and safety systems

3. Civil Work:

• Cable trenching and conduit laying
• Basement or parking area modifications
• Weather protection/canopy (for outdoor installations)
• Parking space marking and bollards

4. Fire Safety & Compliance:

• Fire extinguishers
• Ventilation requirements (especially for basement installations)
• Compliance with local building codes

5. Installation & Commissioning:

• Site survey and design
• Installation labor
• Testing and commissioning
• Regulatory approvals

Realistic Budget Ranges (Approximate)

Charger TypeHardware CostTotal Project Cost (incl. infrastructure)7.4 kW AC₹40,000–60,000₹1.2–2.5 lakhs11 kW AC₹60,000–1,00,000₹2–4 lakhs22 kW AC₹1,00,000–1,50,000₹3–6 lakhs60 kW DC₹8–12 lakhs₹15–25 lakhs120 kW DC₹15–20 lakhs₹30–45 lakhs

Note: These are indicative ranges. Actual costs vary significantly based on site conditions, distance from transformer, existing electrical infrastructure, and location.

Critical Insight: The infrastructure cost depends heavily on distance from transformer to charger location. A charger installed 10 meters from the transformer will cost far less than one requiring 100 meters of heavy cabling through basement walls.

Stage 4: Power Sanction & DISCOM Coordination

This is one of the biggest blockers in India—and it's invisible until you're in the middle of the project.

The Problem

Most hotels don't have sufficient sanctioned electrical load to support EV chargers, especially DC fast chargers. Adding load requires:

• Application to local DISCOM (electricity distribution company)
• Approval process that can take weeks to months
• Transformer upgrade requirements (which may or may not be feasible)
• Significantly higher electricity connection charges

Different Connection Types

• LT (Low Tension): For smaller AC chargers
• HT (High Tension): Often required for multiple DC chargers or large installations
• Mixed connections: Some properties need both

DISCOM rules vary from city to city, state to state. There's no standardized process.

Demand Charges for DC Chargers

Many hotels don't understand that DC fast chargers can trigger demand charges—a monthly fixed fee based on peak power demand, regardless of actual usage. This can add thousands of rupees per month to your electricity bill even if the charger is barely used.

What to Do

1. Get a professional site audit before you commit to any charger
   • Check current sanctioned load
   • Assess available capacity
   • Identify transformer location and capacity
   • Estimate load enhancement costs and timeline
2. Factor DISCOM approval time into your project timeline
   • Budget 2–6 months for approvals in most cases
   • Delays are common; plan accordingly
3. Consider phased installation
   • Start with one or two AC chargers within existing sanctioned load
   • Expand later as demand grows and load enhancement is approved

Stage 5: ROI & Business Model—Being Realistic

The Harsh Truth

In India today, EV chargers at hotels rarely generate meaningful revenue in the short term.

Here's why:

• Low EV penetration means low utilization
• AC chargers (which most hotels have) deliver power slowly, limiting turnover
• Operational costs (electricity, maintenance, platform fees) eat into margins

Monetization Models

Option 1: Free Charging (Amenity Model)

• Best for: Premium hotels positioning it as a luxury amenity
• Pros: Great guest experience, simple operations
• Cons: Pure cost center, no revenue

Option 2: Cost Recovery

• Charge per unit (kWh) at a rate that covers your electricity cost
• Best for: Hotels that want to offer the service without subsidizing it
• Typical rate: ₹10–15/kWh (compared to commercial tariff of ₹8–12/kWh)

Option 3: Revenue Generation

• Charge per unit at a premium
• Best for: Highway properties or locations with high EV traffic
• Typical rate: ₹15–25/kWh
• Reality check: Requires high utilization to justify infrastructure investment

Option 4: Time-Based Pricing

• Charge by the hour
• Can work for DC fast chargers with quick turnover
• Complex to communicate and manage

Realistic ROI Timeline

ScenarioPayback PeriodAC charger, high utilization (8–10 sessions/day)3–5 yearsAC charger, moderate utilization (3–5 sessions/day)5–8 yearsAC charger, low utilization (<2 sessions/day)10+ yearsDC fast charger at highway hotel (high traffic)4–7 yearsDC fast charger at city hotel (low traffic)Not viable

Key Takeaway: Unless you're on a major highway route with proven EV traffic, treat EV chargers as an amenity investment, not a profit center.

Stage 5A: CPO Partnership vs. Owning Your Chargers

Beyond deciding what to install, you need to decide who owns and operates your chargers. This is a critical decision that many hotels overlook until they're locked into unfavorable terms.

Two Main Models

Model 1: Own Your Chargers (Direct Ownership)

• You buy the chargers and infrastructure outright
• You control pricing, access policies, and operations
• You handle (or contract) maintenance and support
• You keep all revenue (if charging is paid)

Model 2: CPO Partnership (Charging Point Operator)

• A CPO installs chargers at your property at little or no upfront cost to you
• The CPO owns the chargers and manages operations
• Revenue sharing or lease agreements typically involved
• CPO handles maintenance, software, and payments

The CPO Partnership Trade-offs

Advantages of CPO Partnerships

✅ Minimal upfront investment – CPO bears most or all installation costs
✅ Maintenance handled by CPO – Not your problem when chargers break
✅ Technology updates – CPO manages software, firmware, and payment systems
✅ Quick deployment – No capital approval needed from your side
✅ Revenue sharing potential – Some CPOs offer hotels a cut of charging revenue

Critical Disadvantages and Risks

❌ Loss of control over guest experience

• If the CPO's chargers are frequently offline or malfunctioning, your hotel's reputation suffers, not theirs
• Guests will blame your property for bad charging experience
• You can't quickly fix issues—you're dependent on CPO's response time

❌ Operational rigidity

• You need CPO permission to relocate chargers in the future
• Want to redesign your parking layout? You'll need approval and may face costs
• Changing property use or renovation plans become complicated

❌ Lock-in and inflexibility

• Long-term contracts (often 5–10 years) with penalties for early termination
• Pricing decisions controlled by CPO, not you
• Can't switch to a different technology or provider easily

❌ Revenue leakage

• If charging becomes profitable, the CPO keeps most revenue
• Revenue-sharing models often favor the CPO heavily
• Hidden platform fees and transaction charges erode your share

❌ Service quality concerns

• CPO manages multiple properties; your hotel may not be a priority
• Response times for repairs can be slow
• Limited local support in many cases
• Poor charger uptime = bad reviews for YOUR hotel

❌ Dependency on CPO's business health

• If the CPO company struggles financially or shuts down, you're left with non-functional chargers
• No guarantee of long-term service continuity
• Hardware may become orphaned with no support
  

When CPO Partnerships Make Sense

CPO partnerships can work well if:

• You have extremely limited capital and can't justify upfront investment

• You're in a high-traffic highway location where utilization is guaranteed

• The CPO has a proven track record with hotels and strong local support

• Contract terms allow reasonable flexibility for relocation and exit

• You're treating this purely as an amenity with zero revenue expectations

• The CPO offers strong uptime SLAs with penalties for poor performance

When to Own Your Chargers

Direct ownership is better if:

• You can afford the upfront investment (₹2–6 lakhs for AC chargers)

• You want full control over guest experience and operations

• You need operational flexibility to relocate or redesign parking

• You're building this as a long-term strategic asset

• You want to integrate charging into your hotel's brand and sustainability story

• You prefer predictable costs over revenue-sharing uncertainty

The Hybrid Approach

Some hotels negotiate hybrid models:

• CPO installs chargers with cost-sharing

• Hotel retains more operational control

• Shorter contract terms (2–3 years instead of 10)

• Clear exit clauses and charger buyout options

Key Questions to Ask Before Signing with a CPO

1. What happens to the chargers if your company shuts down or exits the market?

1. What are your uptime SLAs and penalties for not meeting them?

1. Can we relocate chargers if we redesign parking? What's the process and cost?

1. What are the exact revenue-sharing terms? Who pays for electricity?

1. What's the contract duration and what are early termination penalties?

1. Do you have 24/7 local support or is it remote call-center support?

1. Can we see your charger uptime data at other hotel properties?

1. What control do we have over pricing and access policies?

1. Do we get our own dashboard to monitor charger status in real-time?

1. What happens at contract end—do we own the chargers or do you remove them?

Our Recommendation

For most hotels, direct ownership of AC chargers is the better long-term choice. The upfront cost (₹2–6 lakhs for 1–2 AC chargers) is manageable for most properties, and the control, flexibility, and guest experience ownership far outweigh the CAPEX savings of a CPO partnership.

If you do pursue a CPO partnership:

• Negotiate hard on contract terms

• Demand strong uptime SLAs

• Ensure you have relocation rights

• Get references from other hotels that have worked with the CPO

• Read the fine print on revenue sharing and exit clauses

Critical Reminder: When EV guests have a bad charging experience at your hotel, they don't blame the CPO—they blame your hotel and leave bad reviews. Make sure whoever operates your chargers has the same commitment to guest satisfaction that you do.

Stage 6: Subsidies & Government Support—Don't Count on It

Common Misconception

"The government is promoting EVs, so there must be subsidies for installing chargers."

Reality

• Most subsidies target public charging operators (CPOs), not private hotels

• State-level policies vary widely; many states have no active subsidy schemes

• Eligibility criteria are complex and constantly changing

• Approval processes involve significant paperwork and delays

• Many hotels abandon projects when subsidy assumptions collapse

What to Do

Plan your project assuming zero subsidy. If you get one, it's a bonus. If not, you're not stuck.

Some states do offer support—research your specific state's EV policy. But don't let subsidy expectations drive your decision-making.

Stage 6A: Green Certifications & Government Benefits for Hotels

Beyond direct subsidies for charger installation, hotels that install EV charging infrastructure can access several tangible benefits through green certifications, tax incentives, and branding opportunities.

Green Building Certifications

Installing EV charging stations contributes points toward prestigious green building certifications:

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

• Internationally recognized green building certification

• EV charging earns credits under the "Location and Transportation" category

• LEED-certified hotels attract eco-conscious guests and corporates

Benefits:

• Premium room rates (eco-conscious travelers willing to pay 10–15% more)

• Enhanced brand reputation

• Corporate booking preference

• Long-term operational cost savings

• Marketing differentiation

Example: ITC Hotels has multiple LEED Platinum properties in India, positioning them as sustainability leaders

GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment)

• India's indigenous green building rating system developed by TERI

• EV charging infrastructure earns innovation points

• Tailored to Indian climate and context

Benefits:

• Recognition from Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

• Lower operational costs through energy efficiency

• Eligibility for green building incentives from state governments

• Preferred vendor status for government events and bookings

⚠️ Still more to go — guide is very long.

Next message will continue from:

Tax Benefits and Financial Incentives

Reply:

“Continue Part 4”

I will complete everything to the very end.

please continue

Continuing exactly where we stopped. Same content. Clean formatting only.

Tax Benefits and Financial Incentives

1. GST Reduction on EV Chargers

• EV charging equipment attracts only 5% GST (reduced from 18%)

• Significant reduction in hardware procurement costs

• Applies to both AC and DC chargers

2. PM E-DRIVE Scheme (Valid until March 2026)

• ₹2,000 crore allocated for public EV charging stations

• Hotels can access up to 100% subsidy for infrastructure costs including:
  • Transformers
  • Cabling and electrical work
  • Behind-the-meter infrastructure

• Prioritizes installations in:
  • Cities with population over 1 million
  • Smart cities
  • Satellite towns
  • Tourist destinations

How to access: Collaborate with state nodal agencies or apply through Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) portal

3. Subsidized Electricity Tariff

• EV charging stations qualify for single-part tariff

• Tariff capped at Average Cost of Supply (ACoS) until March 31, 2028

• Special tariff structure:
  • 0.7× ACoS during solar hours (9 AM to 4 PM)
  • 1.3× ACoS during non-solar hours

• Much lower than standard commercial tariff, reducing operational costs

4. Property Tax Rebates (Municipal Level)

• Some municipal corporations offer property tax rebates for installing public EV chargers

• Varies by city—check with local municipal authority

• Can be 5–10% rebate on annual property tax

5. De-licensed Activity

• Setting up public EV charging is de-licensed—no special permits required

• Streamlined approval process

• Reduced bureaucratic hurdles

6. RDSS Funding Support

• DISCOMs can use Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme funding for grid upgrades

• Cost of network augmentation not charged to hotel

• Government funds transformer upgrades and grid reinforcement

State-Specific Tourism Department Benefits

Several state tourism departments are actively supporting EV infrastructure in hotels:

Madhya Pradesh Tourism

• Installing EV chargers at 55 government hotel properties

• Offering public-private partnership model for private hotels

• Revenue-sharing arrangements available

Maharashtra Tourism (MTDC)

• Rolling out chargers across 49 MTDC resorts

• Partnership opportunities for private hotels

Goa

• Mandated EV transition for tourist rental vehicles

• Hotels with charging infrastructure get preferential listing on tourism portals

Branding and Marketing Benefits

Eco-Conscious Traveler Premium

• Millennials and Gen Z travelers actively seek sustainable hotels

• Willing to pay 10–20% premium for green-certified properties

• EV charging is a visible, tangible sustainability feature

Corporate Booking Preference

• Many companies have ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) policies

• Require vendor compliance with sustainability standards

• Hotels with EV charging get preference for corporate contracts

OTA (Online Travel Agency) Visibility

• Booking platforms (MakeMyTrip, Booking.com, etc.) highlight "EV charging available"

• Filters for eco-friendly properties boost discoverability

• Higher conversion rates from EV-owning travelers

ESG Reporting

• EV charging infrastructure provides quantifiable ESG metrics:
  • kWh of clean energy delivered
  • CO₂ emissions avoided
  • Number of EVs supported

• Valuable for sustainability reports and investor relations

• Attracts ESG-focused investors and partners

Government Recognition Programs

Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Registration

• Free registration on National Online Database of public charging stations

• Inclusion in national EV charging maps

• Government-verified credibility

Ministry of Tourism Recognition

• Properties with sustainable infrastructure eligible for:
  • National Tourism Awards
  • Sustainable Tourism certifications
  • Featured in government tourism promotions

How to Maximize Benefits

Step 1: Install EV charging as part of broader sustainability initiative (solar, water conservation, waste management)

Step 2: Apply for LEED or GRIHA certification (EV charging contributes points)

Step 3: Register chargers on BEE portal for national database inclusion

Step 4: Apply for PM E-DRIVE subsidies through state nodal agency

Step 5: Claim GST benefits on charger procurement

Step 6: Update all marketing materials:

• Website sustainability page

• OTA listings

• Corporate sales decks

• ESG reports

Step 7: Engage with state tourism departments for partnership opportunities

Important Caveats

⚠️ Not all benefits are automatic—you need to actively apply for certifications and subsidies

⚠️ Certification costs money—LEED/GRIHA certification processes have fees (₹2–5 lakhs typically)

⚠️ Documentation required—Maintain detailed records of energy consumption, session data, and emissions avoided

⚠️ Subsidy timelines—PM E-DRIVE is valid until March 2026; plan applications accordingly

Strategic Takeaway: Don't just install chargers—position them as part of your hotel's sustainability story. The branding, certification, and tax benefits can significantly offset installation costs over time.

Stage 7: Choosing the Right Charger Solution

Decision Framework

Use this framework to select what's right for your property:

For City Business Hotels

• Recommendation: Start with 1–2 AC chargers (11 kW or 22 kW)

• Rationale: Guests stay overnight anyway; slow charging is fine

• Placement: Well-lit, accessible parking spots near entrance

For Highway/Route Hotels

• Recommendation: Consider 1–2 DC fast chargers (60 kW) if traffic justifies it, otherwise AC

• Rationale: Highway travelers need quick turnaround

• Placement: Clearly visible from highway, well-signposted

For Resorts/Leisure Properties

• Recommendation: AC chargers (11 kW or 22 kW)

• Rationale: Multi-day stays; guests have plenty of time to charge

• Placement: Near guest parking, integrated into property aesthetics

For Budget/Tier-2/3 Hotels

• Recommendation: Start with 1 AC charger (7.4 kW or 11 kW)

• Rationale: Test the waters with minimal investment

• Placement: Best available parking spot

Connector Standards in India

India has multiple EV charging standards in circulation:

• Type 2 (AC): Most common, supported by most EVs

• CCS2 (DC): DC fast charging standard, increasingly universal

• CHAdeMO (DC): Older Japanese standard, declining

Recommendation: Go with Type 2 for AC chargers and CCS2 for DC chargers. These are becoming the de facto standards.

Stage 8: Installation Best Practices

Site Survey Checklist

Before installation begins, ensure the vendor has:

✓ Measured transformer-to-charger distance
✓ Identified cable routing path
✓ Assessed electrical panel capacity
✓ Checked earthing requirements
✓ Evaluated parking layout and guest accessibility
✓ Reviewed fire safety and ventilation needs (basements)
✓ Confirmed DISCOM requirements

Common Placement Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Chargers in poorly lit basement corners
❌ Chargers far from hotel entrance or lobby
❌ No signage or visibility
❌ Parking spots prone to ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle blocking
❌ Chargers in areas without mobile network coverage (needed for app connectivity)

✅ Well-lit, accessible spots near entrance
✅ Clear signage (both for discovery and usage instructions)
✅ Reserved/marked EV parking spots
✅ Good mobile network signal
✅ Weather protection (for outdoor chargers)

Timeline Expectations

Typical project timeline:

PhaseDurationSite survey & design1–2 weeksPower sanction/load enhancement (if required)2–6 monthsEquipment procurement2–4 weeksCivil & electrical work2–4 weeksInstallation & commissioning1 week

Total: 2–8 months depending on power approval requirements

Stage 9: Operations & Maintenance

Ensuring Reliability

EV chargers that don't work destroy guest trust faster than anything else. Common causes of downtime:

• Power outages and voltage fluctuations
• Network/SIM connectivity issues
• Software/firmware bugs
• Physical damage from misuse

What You Need

1. Charger Management System (CMS) / Monitoring Dashboard

Even if you're offering free AC charging, a CMS is absolutely critical. Here's why:

For Uptime Assurance

• Know when chargers go offline before guests complain
• Remote monitoring means you don't need staff to physically check chargers
• Get instant alerts for faults (power issues, network problems, hardware failures)
• Can remotely restart chargers without sending staff to parking area

For Operational Intelligence

• Track actual utilization – how many sessions per day/week/month
• Energy consumption data – understand electricity costs even if charging is free
• Session duration tracking – identify if guests are hogging chargers after full charge
• Peak usage times – plan staffing and potential expansion

For Guest Experience

• Front desk can check charger status in real-time when guests ask
• Proactively inform guests if chargers are occupied or offline
• Monitor session completion and notify guests when charging is done
• Prevent guest frustration from walking to parking only to find chargers offline

For Maintenance & Cost Management

• Identify patterns in failures (time for preventive maintenance)
• Track total electricity costs for budgeting and internal ROI calculations
• Generate reports for sustainability/ESG reporting
• Justify expansion or changes based on hard utilization data

For Accountability & Policy Enforcement

• Identify misuse (non-guests using chargers, excessive parking)
• Enforce time limits if needed
• Track which parking spots see most usage
• Provide data for future business model decisions (transition to paid charging)

What a Good CMS Dashboard Should Show:

• Real-time charger status (available/in use/offline/error)
• Current session details (time elapsed, energy delivered)
• Session history and energy consumption trends
• Fault alerts and maintenance notifications
• Electricity cost tracking
• Utilization reports (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Remote control capabilities (restart, enable/disable ports)

Critical Insight: Hotels that install chargers without CMS operate blind. When a charger breaks, they only find out when an angry guest complains. With CMS, you know immediately and can proactively communicate with guests or send maintenance.

Don't accept "basic" monitoring that only shows if a charger is online/offline. Insist on detailed session tracking, energy monitoring, and remote troubleshooting capabilities—even for free AC charging.

2. Maintenance Support

• Local vendor presence or responsive remote support
• Clear AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) terms
• Spare parts availability
• Firmware update capability

3. Staff Training

• How to assist guests with charging
• Basic troubleshooting (restart procedures, etc.)
• Who to call when chargers go offline

Guest Access & Policies

Define clear rules:

• Guest-only vs. public access: Will you allow non-guests to use chargers? (Opening to public can improve utilization but requires proper management)
• Time limits: Prevent guests from leaving cars plugged in long after charging is complete
• Priority rules: Who gets access when all chargers are occupied?
• Reservation system: Can guests pre-book charging slots?

Stage 10: The Guest Experience

What Matters to EV Owners

1. Availability & Reliability: Finding a charger shown as "available" only to discover it's offline is infuriating
2. Speed: Transparency about charging speed and estimated time to full charge
3. Ease of access: Simple payment and no app hell (download this app, create account, add money to wallet, etc.)
4. Safety: Well-lit, secure locations
5. Transparency: Clear pricing and session information

The App Problem

One of the biggest complaints from EV users: Every charging network requires a different app, wallet top-up, and account.

Solution approach:

• Look for charging solutions that support UPI payments or WhatsApp-based access (no app download required)
• If using an app-based system, provide clear instructions at the charger with QR codes
• Train front desk staff to help guests troubleshoot

Communicating Your EV Charger

Don't install a charger and hope people notice:

✓ List it on your website and booking platforms (OTAs)
✓ Mention it in booking confirmations
✓ Highlight it in sustainability/green initiatives
✓ Add signage on property and on approach roads (if applicable)
✓ Include in Google Business listing
✓ Register on EV charging map apps (PlugShare, Google Maps, etc.)

Stage 11: Scaling Up—When and How

When to Add More Chargers

Don't scale until you've validated demand:

✓ Existing chargers are consistently used (>60% utilization)
✓ You have guest complaints about charger availability
✓ You have a waitlist or booking requests mentioning EV charging

How to Scale Smartly

Phase 1: 1–2 AC chargers (test & learn)
Phase 2: Add 1–2 more AC chargers based on utilization
Phase 3: Consider DC fast charger if you're on a highway route with proven high traffic

Plan your electrical infrastructure for scalability from day one even if you don't install multiple chargers immediately. This avoids costly re-work later.

Stage 12: Choosing the Right Partner/Vendor

Red Flags to Watch For

❌ Vendor focuses only on charger price, doesn't discuss infrastructure costs
❌ No clear AMC or maintenance support plan
❌ No local presence or support team
❌ Can't provide references from existing hotel installations
❌ Promises unrealistic ROI timelines
❌ Doesn't ask detailed questions about your property and guest profile

Green Flags to Look For

✓ Comprehensive site audit before quoting
✓ Transparent total project cost breakdown
✓ Realistic ROI and utilization projections
✓ Clear maintenance and support SLA
✓ Monitoring and management dashboard
✓ References you can verify
✓ Understanding of DISCOM processes in your area
✓ Flexible business model options (free, paid, cost-recovery)

Questions to Ask Vendors

1. What is the total project cost including all infrastructure work?
2. What is the estimated timeline including power sanction approvals?
3. What happens if the site survey reveals we need load enhancement? What's the additional cost and time?
4. What charger standards/connectors do you support?
5. What's included in your AMC? What's the response time for issues?
6. Do you have local technicians or is support remote only?
7. What guest access options do you support (app, RFID card, UPI, WhatsApp)?
8. Can I see reference installations at similar properties?
9. How do you handle firmware updates and software bugs?
10. What reporting/monitoring tools do you provide?

Real-World Case Studies

Case Study 1: City Business Hotel (Bangalore)

Property: 80-room business hotel
Solution: 2 × 11 kW AC chargers
Total Cost: ₹4.2 lakhs
Business Model: Free for guests
Utilization: 2–3 sessions per day
Outcome: Positive guest feedback, featured in OTA listings, no ROI expectation—treated as amenity

Case Study 2: Highway Hotel (Mumbai-Pune Expressway)

Property: 40-room highway hotel
Solution: 1 × 60 kW DC fast charger
Total Cost: ₹18 lakhs
Business Model: ₹18/kWh
Utilization: 8–12 sessions per day
Outcome: Projected 5-year payback, became a known EV pit stop, strong word-of-mouth

Case Study 3: Budget Hotel (Tier-2 City)

Property: 25-room budget hotel
Solution: 1 × 7.4 kW AC charger
Total Cost: ₹1.8 lakhs
Business Model: Free for guests
Utilization: 1–2 sessions per week
Outcome: Minimal usage, but good for branding; no regret due to low investment

Common Myths Debunked

Myth 1: "Green meters will make electricity cheaper"

Reality: Green meter/EV tariff approvals are DISCOM-dependent and savings are often minimal or unclear. Don't bank on it.

Myth 2: "We'll recover costs quickly with paid charging"

Reality: Low utilization makes ROI weak even with premium pricing. Treat it as a long-term asset.

Myth 3: "Installation is plug-and-play"

Reality: Site surveys, electrical work, DISCOM approvals—expect a multi-month process.

Myth 4: "All EVs can use any charger"

Reality: Connector standards matter. Stick with Type 2 (AC) and CCS2 (DC) for maximum compatibility.

Myth 5: "One charger is enough"

Reality: It might be initially, but as EV adoption grows, you'll need scalability. Plan infrastructure accordingly.

Final Recommendations: A Checklist

Before you commit to EV charger installation, ensure you've:

• Assessed actual EV guest demand (not assumed it)
• Defined your objective (amenity vs. revenue)
• Chosen the right charger type based on guest stay duration
• Understood total project cost including infrastructure
• Factored in power sanction timeline (if applicable)
• Set realistic ROI expectations (or accepted it's an amenity)
• Selected a vendor with local support and clear AMC
• Planned charger placement for visibility and accessibility
• Defined guest access and usage policies
• Planned for monitoring and maintenance
• Decided on guest communication strategy (how will they know you have chargers?)
• Built scalability into your infrastructure even if starting small

Conclusion

Installing EV chargers at your hotel is not just about buying a piece of hardware. It's about understanding your guest profile, being realistic about costs and returns, navigating India's complex power infrastructure, and committing to reliable operations.

The hotels that succeed with EV charging infrastructure are those that:

• Start with data, not assumptions
• Choose solutions appropriate to their context (not the flashiest ones)
• Budget for total project cost, not just charger price
• Operate chargers reliably and keep them accessible
• Treat it as a long-term amenity investment, not a short-term revenue play

The EV revolution is well underway—India's charging network expanded to nearly 40,000 stations by December 2025, with government targets of 72,000 fast chargers by March 2026 and one million total charging points by 2030. Hotels that build EV charging infrastructure thoughtfully today will be well-positioned as EV adoption accelerates toward the government's 30% penetration target by 2030.

But those that rush in without understanding the complexities will end up with underutilized, poorly maintained chargers that frustrate guests instead of delighting them.

Make your decision carefully. And if you do decide to move forward, partner with providers who understand the ground realities of the Indian market and can support you through the entire journey—not just the sale.

About Savekar EV

Savekar EV is a full-stack EV charging ecosystem specifically designed to address the real, on-ground challenges hotels face. From informed decision-making through demand assessment and wide charger portfolio access, to verified vendor networks, transparent ROI guidance, and a standout WhatsApp-based, app-less charging experience with UPI payments—Savekar EV eliminates the biggest guest pain points while providing hotels with real-time monitoring, flexible access policies, and long-term operational support.

We position ourselves not just as a charger provider, but as a strategic enabler for sustainable EV adoption in the hospitality sector.

Learn more: Savekar.com

This guide is based on extensive research, vendor consultations, and real-world hotel implementations across India. Data sources include government policy documents, industry reports, hotel chain announcements, Reddit community discussions, and YouTube installation case studies.