Goa’s bold vision to become a zero-emission state by 2050, reducing its carbon footprint by 189 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, has long been a beacon for sustainable development. Central to this strategy is transitioning to solar energy and promoting electric vehicles (EVs), seen as a key driver toward cleaner transportation and greener energy. However, recent data revealing an 80% plunge in EV sales in the first quarter of 2025 signals that the State’s aspirational goals are encountering unforeseen hurdles, prompting a critical reassessment of the approach.
The year 2024 was not bad for the EV segment, but 2025 up till now has been worse. The sharp decline in EV adoption—dropping from 3,928 vehicles in Q1 2024 to just 773 in the same period this year—represents a major setback. Both categories, two-wheelers and four-wheelers, have suffered steep declines, primarily due to the sudden withdrawal of subsidies, delays in disbursing financial incentives, and the dearth of charging infrastructure. The government’s reduction of subsidies under the FAME-II scheme and the discontinuation of state support have disincentivized buyers, especially when the upfront costs remain too high compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
The fundamental truth is that incentives and infrastructure are the twin pillars necessary to catalyze EV adoption. Subsidies, while crucial, are a short-term stimulant; yet, without a robust network of charging stations and commitments on battery life, consumer hesitancy would persist. Potential buyers worry about range anxiety, the longevity of batteries, and the inconvenience of emergency charging options, besides servicing stations.
While Goa’s commitment to renewable energy initiatives such as solar, biogas, and water heating projects demonstrates a holistic approach to sustainability, the EV segment’s stagnation indicates that policy support must be more nuanced. Merely announcing infrastructure plans, like sharing costs for charging stations, is insufficient if ground realities remain unaddressed. The State must accelerate the deployment of accessible, reliable charging docks, especially along highways and in rural areas, besides looking at other issues to instil confidence in prospective EV owners.
The EV experiences across India have not been flawless. News of vehicles stopping midway, developing snags or battery charge dropping abruptly are issues that bring in hesitancy. Manufacturers have not sounded convincing about battery technology advancements, lifespan, and maintenance. A seamless transition to EVs depends on building trust in the technology and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with demand. Goa is a tourist destination that should have capitalised on the EV segment given the cost-saving nature.
The decline in EV sales highlights the importance of a strategic, long-term approach. Tinkering with subsidies without addressing infrastructure gaps and consumer concerns will not help Goa’s green ambitions in the long run. The State must prioritize a balanced, well-supported rollout of EV infrastructure, coupled with targeted incentives, to revive interest and ensure that Goa remains on course to achieve its goals.
Central subsidy becomes crucial to Goa’s EV plan, and a disconnect here would obviously have an adverse effect on the net figures. With a double-engine sarkar running on track, the State government will have to impress upon the Centre to restore subsidies till a time the EV sector bounces back. There has to be calibrated interventions to navigate this journey. The road ahead calls for patience, innovation, and a sensible understanding of the local context.
