Odisha's Ambitious Electric Vehicle Policy: A Step Towards Sustainable Energy

Bhubaneswar's Green Initiative

In a significant move towards promoting renewable energy, the Odisha government is set to unveil a detailed Electric Vehicle (EV) policy. This initiative aims to enhance the necessary infrastructure for the adoption of electric vehicles, as stated by Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo during a recent meeting with Sarvotech, a firm specializing in solar energy and EV infrastructure, held at Lok Seva Bhavan.

Singh Deo underscored the necessity of fostering a clean and sustainable future for a 'Viksit Odisha'. He noted that the forthcoming EV policy will serve as a cornerstone for establishing EV charging stations throughout the state, in line with the national objective of minimizing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions.

During the meeting, representatives from Sarvotech shared their proposal for the installation of EV charging stations and the expansion of solar energy production in Odisha. The company has already conducted site assessments and expressed eagerness to assist in developing the state's EV infrastructure. 'The state is dedicated to enhancing electric vehicle usage. We will soon introduce the 'Odisha EV Policy', which will create an enabling environment for EV development, including charging facilities, subsidies, and private sector involvement,' Singh Deo remarked.

Odisha's power sector has gained national acclaim, with three of its DISCOMs recognized among the top ten in India. The state's effective electricity management has also attracted interest from Uttar Pradesh, which is considering adopting this model. Key attendees at the meeting included Finance department Principal Secretary Saswat Kumar Mishra, GRIDCO Managing Director Trilochana Panda, Sarvotech MD Raman Bhatia, senior officials from Tata Power, and representatives from the Energy department.

The anticipated Odisha EV Policy is expected to stimulate investments, encourage sustainable transportation, and lessen the carbon footprint of the state's transport sector.