Guiyang boosts charging infrastructure for EVs

With the rapid increase in the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years, Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, has been accelerating the construction of urban and rural charging infrastructure. 

In older residential areas where charging stations cannot be installed, Guiyang power supply bureau, in collaboration with charging facility construction companies, has set up public outdoor charging stations in close proximity. These stations operate on a time-of-use electricity pricing model, with peak and off-peak rates fluctuating by 60 percent. 

To ensure "zero delay" charging services for vehicles, the bureau has extended its services to cover dealerships for new energy vehicles in the city, directly addressing vehicle owners' inquiries about electricity rates, fees, usage, and installation processes. 

"We took advantage of the 'waiting period' for vehicle delivery, developed an electrical system access plan in advance, and formulated a charging pile construction schedule. As a result, residents can use the newly built charging pile on the same day they buy their new vehicles," said Guo Hong, an employee at Guiyang power supply bureau. 

Guiyang's public transportation has also been transitioning to electric power. 

Currently, Guiyang Public Transportation Group Co has over 900 electric vehicles. To address charging issues, the bureau, in partnership with the company, has invested over 10 million yuan ($1.37 million) to construct the Future Ark Electric Vehicle Charging Station. 

Feng Qin, an official from the bureau, said the station has 30 60-kilowatt direct current chargers, including 12 dedicated for buses and 18 for general use.