Karnataka May Make EV Charging Stations Mandatory in Large Buildings
Bengaluru, Karnataka | September 3, 2026: Karnataka may soon make electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure a mandatory part of large buildings and new residential developments. The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has proposed new electricity supply regulations that could directly affect property developers, apartment projects and large building owners across the state.
The draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (Electricity Supply) Regulations, 2026 also propose underground power cables for newly developed layouts, faster electricity connections and compensation for consumers when certain service complaints are not resolved within prescribed timelines.
Large Buildings May Need Four EV Charging Stations
Under the proposed regulations, buildings located within the jurisdiction of an urban development authority or municipal corporation would need to provide at least four EV charging stations for four-wheelers if they have a sanctioned electrical load of 250 kVA or occupy 5,000 square feet.
For developers, this means EV charging space could become part of the planning and infrastructure requirements for qualifying projects. Residents, employees and visitors would also get access to charging facilities within the building rather than depending entirely on public charging stations.
New Residential Layouts May Require Underground Cables
KERC has also proposed underground electricity cable networks for newly developed layouts.
The measure could have a direct impact on future residential developments, as underground networks are intended to reduce disruptions caused by rain, strong winds and falling trees while also lowering the risk of electrical accidents.
For homebuyers, more reliable power infrastructure could improve the long-term usability and safety of newly developed residential areas.
Faster Electricity Connections Proposed
The draft regulations seek to introduce mandatory timelines for electricity distribution companies to provide new connections after applications are submitted.
The proposal could benefit new homeowners, apartment complexes and businesses waiting for electricity connections. Companies such as BESCOM and MESCOM would be expected to follow prescribed timelines, reducing uncertainty for consumers during property handovers and new occupancy.
Consumers Could Get Compensation for Service Delays
KERC has also proposed a compensation mechanism when distribution companies fail to resolve certain complaints within the specified period.
Issues including power outages, billing errors and faulty meters would need to be addressed within defined timelines. Failure to meet those standards could result in compensation or penalties for the concerned electricity distribution company.
This could give property residents and other consumers a clearer mechanism for holding electricity providers accountable for prolonged service issues.
Green Electricity Could Give Apartment Buyers More Choice
The proposed regulations would also allow consumers, industries and apartment complexes to opt for renewable electricity generated from sources such as solar and wind at a separate tariff.
For residential communities, this could create an additional option for sourcing cleaner electricity and may become increasingly relevant as apartment projects look at sustainability and energy-efficiency features.
What the Proposals Mean for Karnataka Real Estate
If implemented, the proposed rules could influence how developers plan electrical infrastructure in upcoming projects. EV charging facilities and underground cabling would require space, planning and potentially additional infrastructure investment during project development.
For buyers, the changes could eventually mean better-prepared residential projects with EV charging access and more resilient electricity infrastructure.
However, these are proposals under the draft regulations and should not yet be treated as final requirements. The final rules and their implementation framework will determine when and how these provisions apply to Karnataka’s property developments.