"In Tashkent, electric vehicle charging stations are being shut down, sparking reactions as some aim to profit from rental spaces or save on electricity costs."

The company “Regional Electric Networks” (RES) started on December 9 to systematically disconnect charging stations for electric vehicles in Tashkent, which has puzzled market operators. This is happening against the backdrop of government efforts to expand the infrastructure for electric vehicles.

According to business representatives, the disconnections are abrupt and without prior notice, accompanied by demands to connect the stations directly to the RES network. In response, RES claims that the disconnections are solely due to outstanding debts. However, business representatives assert that there are no debts, and other consumers using the same transformers remain connected. It is also noted that no acts or documents are provided during the disconnections.

Blogger Umid Gafurov writes that, according to an unofficial version, this is a way to profit from renting space for the stations or to save on electricity.

“Although the Ministry of Energy denies its involvement and claims to support the development of electric vehicles. Moreover, combating shortages in this manner is foolish. Demand will not disappear. Officially: The Cadastre Agency suddenly decided to check the legality of the installation of charging stations and allegedly discovered a violation of the law. They plan to dismantle almost all stations in the capital within 15 days.”

The blogger noted that previously, the authorities had taken steps to expand the infrastructure for electric vehicles.

“And today we are completely destroying the infrastructure without which these very electric vehicles will turn into bricks. The business wants to cooperate and ‘legalize’ all stations. But the state, represented by the Cadastre Agency, is not providing any solutions, while K-Savdo in the city of Tashkent is ‘closed’. I am just amazed at how foolish everything is. The news promises one thing, but in reality, it is something completely different. I wouldn’t be surprised if a player emerges soon who has everything in accordance with the law.”

Blogger Kurbanoffnet provides a timeline of events.

“Exactly a year ago [there were statements – ed.]: ‘Guys, things won’t get better with gasoline, so let’s encourage the installation of CNG stations.’ Time passes, restrictions are imposed on AGNKS operations. [Then – ed.] ‘Guys, things won’t get better with gas, so let’s promote electric vehicles.’ Time passes, and we will disconnect household consumers who use more than 3 kWh. Curtain …”