Recent reports indicate that the Ministry of Construction is exploring a plan to place electric vehicle charging stations near homes without needing the consent of residents. This proposal aims to streamline access to charging infrastructure and reduce barriers for urban EV users, potentially accelerating adoption in residential areas.
The demand for EV charging in Russia remains uneven, with a noticeable shortage in many regions. In June, officials announced a target to add 659 fast charging stations by the end of 2023, expanding the existing network beyond the roughly 4.4 thousand stations already in operation across the country. The goal is to improve reliability and coverage, especially in densely populated zones and transit corridors, where drivers often rely on nearby charging while at work or running errands.
Under current practice, installing charging stations typically requires consent from the owners at general assemblies. The new approach under consideration would allow developers or municipalities to install stations without seeking unanimous resident approval, with developers possibly required to install charging infrastructure during the construction phase of new residential projects. This shift could speed up deployment and ensure that new builds are equipped with charging options from the outset, aligning with broader urban modernization efforts.
In the capital city, Moscow, officials have announced ongoing work on a fast-charging network designed to serve multiple electric vehicles simultaneously. With an emphasis on local production and import substitution, the plan envisions expanding the network substantially within a year. Currently, Moscow hosts more than 400 charging points, and the administration has signaled an ambition to add several hundred stations annually to keep pace with growing EV ownership and demand for rapid recharging options.
These developments reflect a broader push to modernize power and transportation infrastructure, reduce vehicle emissions, and offer convenient charging options to residents and visitors alike. The balance between resident rights and rapid infrastructure expansion remains a topic of public discussion as authorities weigh the benefits of faster deployment against the need for local input and safeguards. As the country progresses, the emphasis is on creating a robust, accessible charging network that supports both urban mobility and regional connectivity.