CESL Targets 5,000 EVs in Government Fleet with New 'EV as a Service' Initiative

Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, launched the 'EV as a Service' initiative by Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), a branch of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. The new program aims to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption within government sectors, including ministries, departments, Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), and other government institutions.

With an ambitious goal of deploying 5,000 electric vehicles over the next two years, CESL's 'EV as a Service' provides a flexible approach that allows government offices to choose from a selection of EV models that best suit their operating requirements. This effort not only advances India's sustainable development goals, but also fits with the country's pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. CESL's programme will be critical in lowering carbon emissions and reducing India's reliance on fossil fuels, hence improving its energy security.

CESL has already deployed about 2,000 electric automobiles countrywide and is assisting with the integration of approximately 17,000 electric buses, indicating significant success in the government's green transportation ambitions. Shri Manohar Lal expressed his pleasure in CESL's sustainable approach at the inaugural event, stating that “The 'EV as a Service' program is a testament to CESL’s innovative drive and commitment to clean mobility solutions. It sets a meaningful precedent in India’s transition toward green energy, fostering a future where clean energy drives our transportation systems."

Shri Vishal Kapoor, CESL Managing Director and CEO, emphasised the program's synergy with the recently created PM E-DRIVE Scheme, which aims to expand India's electric mobility environment. According to him, "CESL envisions a fully electric future for transportation in India, and by streamlining EV adoption in government fleets, we are paving the way for large-scale emissions reduction and strengthened energy security. This initiative connects manufacturers, fleet operators, policymakers, and users, creating a collaborative platform for growth."

The event also included an EV display and rally including over 100 electric vehicles from various segments, such as e-bikes, two-wheelers, three-wheelers, e-tractors, mobile charging vans, freight pickups, e-buses, and trucks. The march showed the variety of e-mobility alternatives available in India, highlighting CESL's commitment to developing a greener, more sustainable transportation infrastructure.

The event was attended by senior officials from numerous government departments, including the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Department of Revenue, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, as well as representatives from EV manufacturing businesses, think tanks, and EV activists.