Chandigarh Takes a Major Leap Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility

Strategic Insights -

Chandigarh is revolutionizing its urban mobility sector by introducing solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs at four strategic locations. This initiative, spearheaded by Chandigarh Renewal Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST), aims to create a fully renewable energy-powered ecosystem that integrates solar generation, battery storage, and e-mobility infrastructure. The flagship 500 kWp solar power project, set up in the IT Park, will provide 230 kWp of energy for EV charging and battery swapping stations, with a battery storage system to ensure uninterrupted power supply.

Key Takeaways:

  • Chandigarh is launching solar-powered EV charging hubs at four key locations: IT Park, New Lake Parking (Sector 42), Botanical Garden Parking, and New Grain Market (Sector 39).
  • The initiative is being spearheaded by Chandigarh Renewal Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST), which aims to create a fully renewable energy-powered ecosystem integrating solar generation, battery storage, and e-mobility infrastructure.
  • A flagship 500 kWp solar power project will be installed in the IT Park, with 230 kWp allocated for EV charging and battery swapping stations, and equipped with a battery storage system for uninterrupted power supply.
  • The model will be replicated at three additional sites across the city, each featuring rooftop solar panels, battery backup systems, super-fast charging stations, and battery swapping facilities.
  • The hubs will cater to a wide range of EVs, including cars, e-rickshaws, and commercial vehicles.
  • Battery swapping stations will primarily serve two and three-wheelers, minimising downtime and offering convenience to fleet operators and delivery partners.
  • The entire infrastructure will be developed under an OPEX (Operational Expenditure) model through e-tendering, allowing private sector participation and efficiency without upfront government subsidies.
  • Chandigarh has 35 operational public EV charging stations with growing public adoption, generating close to Rs 40 lakh in revenue over the first year of operations.

Statistics:

  • 500 kWp solar power project will be installed in the IT Park.
  • 230 kWp of energy will be allocated for EV charging and battery swapping stations.
  • 200 kWp will be allocated for EV charging.
  • 30 kWp will be allocated for battery swapping.
  • Three additional sites will be developed to replicate the model.
  • Chandigarh has an installed solar power capacity of around 90 MW.
  • Revenue from public EV charging stations surged from Rs 2,732 in June 2024 to nearly Rs 6.4 lakh in May 2025.

Sources:

  • Chandigarh Renewal Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST)
  • Times of India, Chandigarh: "Chandigarh to launch solar-powered EV charging hubs at four locations"