Electric Vehicle Usage in Nepal Surges: Daily Power Consumption and Petroleum Savings on the Rise
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates across Nepal, the country is experiencing a notable rise in electricity consumption. This growing demand for EV charging is a direct reflection of the nation’s shift toward cleaner transportation alternatives.
According to Sagarmani Gyawali, Assistant Manager at the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), EVs now consume an average of 550,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity daily. Notably, this figure only includes electricity used at dedicated public charging stations, and does not account for the additional power consumed through home charging.
EV Charging Demand Expected to Grow Further
With more Nepalis embracing electric mobility, electricity consumption is only expected to increase. Gyawali noted that the absence of specific data on residential charging means the actual consumption could be significantly higher. Nevertheless, the current numbers already highlight the growing impact of EVs on Nepal’s national grid.
He also shared that, as of now, there are 1,511 operational EV charging stations across the country. These stations support various EV types, including electric cars, jeeps, vans, buses, and microbuses. Today, over 35,000 electric vehicles are actively running on Nepali roads, marking a significant shift in the nation’s transport landscape.
Daily Petroleum Savings Reach Nearly NPR 30 Million
As EV use expands, Nepal is also witnessing a major reduction in petroleum consumption. According to Gyawali, EVs now help the country avoid the use of approximately 169,000 liters of fuel per day. Based on current fuel prices—NPR 157 per liter for petrol and NPR 140 per liter for diesel—this translates to a daily savings of roughly NPR 25.8 million in petroleum costs.
When calculated annually, this figure reaches approximately NPR 9.5 billion, showcasing the long-term economic benefits of electric mobility. These savings also contribute to reduced fuel imports, supporting Nepal’s energy independence goals.
Charging Infrastructure Expanding Rapidly
Alongside EV growth, Nepal’s charging infrastructure has seen rapid development. As of Asar 32, 2082, the country had completed the construction of 1,511 charging stations. Moreover, over 100 new stations are currently under construction, further boosting nationwide accessibility.
Notably, the last fiscal year alone added 311 new EV charging stations, bringing the total from 1,200 to 1,511. This infrastructure boom indicates the government and private sector’s strong commitment to supporting Nepal’s clean energy transition.
A Promising Road Ahead
The rise in EV usage, increased electricity demand, and reduced dependence on fossil fuels paint a promising picture for Nepal’s transportation future. As charging stations continue to expand and public interest in EVs grows, the country is moving steadily toward a sustainable, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly mobility system.
