Gujarat is preparing to develop a pilot network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations powered entirely by renewable energy. The project will combine renewable energy generation with battery storage to reduce dependence on the conventional power grid and support the state’s shift towards electric mobility.
The initiative is one of three pilot projects worth around ₹9.02 crore being undertaken by the Gujarat Power Research and Development Cell (GPRD Cell) of Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL), in collaboration with the Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI).
An MoU for the three projects was signed on Monday in the presence of Energy Minister Rishikesh Patel and senior officials from the Energy and Petrochemicals Department, GERMI and the GPRD Cell.
EV Charging Stations to Run on Green Energy
Under the first project, renewable hybrid power generation and energy storage systems will be integrated into EV charging stations.
The aim is to ensure that the charging infrastructure operates entirely on renewable energy, reducing its dependence on the conventional electricity grid. The project is expected to provide a cleaner and more sustainable power source for Gujarat’s growing EV ecosystem.
Battery Storage to Manage Peak Demand
The second pilot project will focus on installing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at the distribution level.
These systems will help manage peak electricity demand and reduce the risk of transformer overloading, improving the reliability of the power distribution network.
Smart Inverters to Improve Grid Stability
The third project will focus on advanced smart hybrid inverters. The pilot will examine technologies such as Volt-VAR control and frequency support.
These inverters can respond to changes in voltage and frequency, helping improve power quality and strengthen overall grid stability.
Together, the three projects are aimed at promoting renewable energy integration, improving grid performance and supporting Gujarat’s transition towards a cleaner energy system.