EV charging growth hinges on skilled workforce, says new MBRDI–TERI report

A groundbreaking whitepaper by Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has shed light on the critical importance of specialized skills for India's expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging network. Released on September 3, the report highlights that the development of a comprehensive EV charging ecosystem requires not just physical infrastructure but also a workforce equipped with essential technical expertise. Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO of MBRDI, emphasized the necessity of addressing the skills gap. He stated, "Sustainability transcends technology; it fundamentally involves people. Through our initiative 'Future-In-Charge,' we aim to not only bridge this skills gap but also confront systemic challenges that hinder comprehensive advancements in EV training and infrastructure. Partnering with TERI, we are committed to preparing young professionals with skills in smart grid integration and IoT, marking a significant investment in India's future that can serve as a model for global initiatives." The whitepaper outlines key skill areas required for effective EV charging infrastructure, including electrical engineering, power electronics, cybersecurity, renewable energy integration, and consumer safety protocols. It underscores the necessity for collaboration among government entities, educational institutions, and private sectors. Dr. Vibha Dhawan, Director General of TERI, remarked on the significance of these partnerships in facilitating India's energy transition. She stated, "As India accelerates its journey towards clean mobility, developing a skilled workforce for EV charging infrastructure is imperative. The Future-In-Charge initiative is a proactive approach to align industry requirements with the skills of young talent. By offering NCVET-approved training that meets the latest technological benchmarks, we aim to empower the next generation to lead India's green transition with assurance and expertise." The report advocates for the establishment of training programs, certification standards, and tailored curricula designed specifically for EV charging technologies. Additionally, it calls for the creation of a national skilling framework that aligns with India's ambitious clean mobility objectives. With the rapid increase in EV adoption, the document warns that India will require thousands of skilled professionals to ensure a dependable charging infrastructure and support the nation's decarbonization efforts.