India can power its growing electric vehicle (EV) fleet with just a small share of its planned renewable energy capacity, if charging patterns shift and smart policies take effect.
A new report by energy think tank Ember shows that only 3% of India’s projected solar and wind capacity for 2032 would be enough to meet EV charging demand. That’s about 15 gigawatts (GW) out of the 468 GW targeted in the National Electricity Plan (NEP-14).
Daytime Charging Key To Clean Energy Use
Most EVs in India are currently charged at home during the evening or night. During these hours, coal dominates electricity supply. Ember analyst Ruchita Shah says this must change.
“More charging during the day, especially at workplaces and commercial areas—can align EV demand with solar power generation,” Shah said.
Shah pointed to time-of-day (ToD) tariffs and more public charging stations as practical steps. ToD tariffs make electricity cheaper during daylight hours when solar power is available.
Eight states, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu, have introduced solar-hour ToD tariffs.
The report also identifies ten states with high EV growth potential in FY25, including Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.
Better Data Can Improve Planning
The report calls for more systematic data collection on EV charging.
Shah said secure data-sharing can help power companies forecast demand and apply ToD pricing more effectively.
“If charging data is aggregated properly, distribution companies can plan better without violating user privacy,” she added.
Ember suggests that EV charging, if well-timed, can help balance the grid by using more renewable energy when it’s abundant.
But there are hurdles. Green tariffs that encourage clean charging often come with extra costs and don’t apply to home use, where most charging still happens.
Shah said India’s EV sector could be used to drive clean electricity demand, not just reduce fuel use.
Purchase subsidies from both central and state governments can boost EV use and push consumers toward flexible charging.
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