Delhi CM directs officials to explore solar powered EV charging stations

New Delhi, Jul 8 (PTI) In an effort to increase Delhi's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has directed officials to explore solar-powered charging stations in future. In a meeting of the transport department headed by Gupta on Wednesday, plans to increase the number of charging stations from the current 9,000 to 32,000 over the next four years were reviewed. Calling for giving special emphasis on developing solar-powered charging stations, Gupta said this would promote cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. "Active support from multiple agencies is being taken to expand the charging network on such a large scale," Gupta said. "Adequate power supply, the availability of suitable locations and effective coordination among various agencies are being ensured to achieve this target," Gupta said. She directed officials to prioritise fast-charging technology in the future and to convert all existing slow-charging stations into fast-charging stations in a phased manner. "If Delhi is to become an EV city in the true sense, it must have modern charging stations equipped with basic amenities such as seating arrangements and drinking water, while ensuring that most charging stations are capable of serving all types of electric vehicles," the chief minister said in a statement. She directed officials to prioritise the development of charging stations at Delhi metro parking areas, municipal parking sites, vacant spaces beneath elevated Metro corridors, areas around Delhi Development Authority markets, major malls, outside railway stations, government premises and large commercial hubs. Last week, the Delhi government notified the new EV policy, which aims to accelerate electric vehicle adoption, improve air quality and create a supportive ecosystem for electric mobility. PTI SSM SSM MPL MPL