When India’s transport future is discussed, electric vehicles (EVs) are often hailed as the silver bullet. But as Union Minister Pralhad Joshi recently emphasized, EVs alone aren’t enough. To truly transform mobility, every electric vehicle in India must be powered by clean, renewable energy.
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The Vision: Clean EVs + Clean Power
Speaking at the launch of a fleet in Delhi (Refex Mobility), Joshi laid it out plainly:
“Every electric vehicle in India should run on clean energy means. All the charging-recharging should happen by the renewable energy.” Autocar Pro
With a power generation capacity in India now standing at 495 gigawatts, roughly 253 gigawatts (≈ 50%) comes from renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydro. This mix gives the country a solid foundation—but Joshi believes the goal should be more ambitious: using renewables not just in generation, but directly in charging EVs. Autocar Pro
Why This Matters: Beyond the Car
Charging an EV from coal-powered grids still carries emissions. The promise of zero-tailpipe emissions shrinks if the electricity comes from non-renewable sources. Here’s how clean charging changes the game:
- Reduces carbon footprint: Entire lifecycle emissions drop dramatically when power is green.
- Lowers oil imports: Less dependence on petrol & diesel means less foreign exchange spent.
- Aligns with global climate goals: Helps India meet its net-zero pledges and international expectations.
Steps Already in Motion
Joshi’s ministry isn’t just talking—they’re backing action:
- Through the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), the government offers funding support for EV fleet owners and for creating charging infrastructure. Some projects may receive up to 80% of their cost financed. Autocar Pro
- There is also a parallel push to develop green hydrogen as another clean fuel option. Pilot projects involving hydrogen-fueled transport and hydrogen refuelling stations are underway under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Autocar Pro
What Needs to Happen Next
For Joshi’s vision to become reality, several pieces must fall into place:
- Scaling solar and wind infrastructure near charging hubs so that EV charging draws directly from renewable sources.
- Regulatory policies & incentives that encourage or mandate clean energy usage in EV supply chains.
- Grid upgrades and smart charging technology to manage variable renewable power and ensure reliability.
- Public and private investment to build out charging stations, capacitors, storage, etc., especially in areas with weak grid stability.
What It Means For You
As a driver, fleet operator, or citizen, Joshi’s words offer hope:
- If you own or plan to buy an EV, clean charging means your environmental impact is real, not just in tailpipes.
- For businesses with fleets, using renewable energy lowers operating costs over time and improves public perception.
- For India as a nation, each EV charged with solar or wind power is another step toward cleaner air, lower emissions, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Final Thoughts
India stands at a critical crossroads. Electric vehicles are more than a trend—they’re the backbone of future mobility. But unless they are charged with renewable energy, the promise remains partial. Pralhad Joshi’s message is clear: to unlock the full potential of EVs, the electricity powering them must be green.
Only then will India’s journey to sustainable, future-ready transport be complete.
