The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has signed an e-mobility agreement with Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) to procure 25 electric vehicles (EVs) on lease and three fast EV chargers.
Incorporated in the year 1975, NHPC is a state-run hydro power giant running under the ownership of Ministry of Power, Government of India (GOI). It was incorporated with an objective to plan, promote and organize an integrated and efficient development of hydroelectric power in all aspects. However, it gradually expanded its objects to include green other sources of energy as well, such as solar, wind, and geothermal.

CESL is a newly-established subsidiary of state-run Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). It is a joint venture (JV) of public sector companies under GOI’s Ministry of Power. It focuses on delivering clean as well as affordable energy.

Following the newly signed pact, which was signed through video conferencing on 4th of June, NHPC will have the biggest fleet of EVs amongst Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India. Earlier in 2019, it had leased two EVs through EESL.

Rajesh Kumar, general manager (mechanical) who signed the pact on behalf of NHPC, said in a statement the decision would prove to be a big step towards reducing levels of pollution. He stressed that the pact between the two government-owned companies was dedicated towards ensuring clean environment and trimming down carbon emission.

Personnel Director NK Jain, Projects Director Biswajit Basu, and NHPC CVO Mr. Srivastava, NHPC managing Director Mahua Acharya and EESL Executive Chairman Saurabh Kumar were also present at the signing of the e-mobility agreement.

AK Singh, CMD of NHPC, said, “We are glad to expand our EV fleet by associating with CESL. NHPC is dedicated towards the environment and is committed to contribute towards reducing carbon footprints in the country.”

In addition to providing 25 EVs, CESL will be responsible for installing three fast chargers at NHPC locations to replenish the battery packs of the vehicles.

The signing of the e-mobility agreement between NHPC and CESL has surfaced as Indian government authorities want to leave no stone unturned to boost adoption of EVs. Government agencies and consumers are being encouraged through various schemes and incentives to accelerate their switch from conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) to environment-friendly EVs as part of their larger plan to trim down carbon emissions and fight back climate change.