Himachal Pradesh Plans EV Charging Facilities and Energy-Efficient Building Rules

Himachal Pradesh Plans EV Charging Facilities and Energy-Efficient Building Rules

March 6, 2026

The Himachal Pradesh government has proposed changes to its town planning regulations to promote electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and improve energy efficiency in buildings across the state. The proposed amendments aim to make EV charging points mandatory in certain types of buildings while also enforcing energy-efficiency standards for large structures.

Under the draft amendment to the Town and Country Planning Rules, 2014, EV charging points would be introduced in commercial, public, semi-public buildings and real estate developments. The proposal aligns with provisions for EV charging infrastructure outlined in the updated Model Building Bye-Laws, which guide states in integrating charging facilities into building designs.

The proposed rules also require compliance with the Himachal Pradesh Energy Conservation Building Code (HPECBC) and Rules, 2018 for buildings with a built-up area of 750 square meters or more. The energy-efficiency requirements would apply to various categories such as hospitality facilities, hospitals, educational institutions, business buildings, shopping complexes, assembly spaces, and mixed-use developments.

For mixed-use buildings, the rules specify that each commercial portion must be assessed separately. If a specific usage occupies more than 10% of the total floor area, that portion must meet the energy-efficiency standards applicable to that category. Smaller portions occupying less than 10% of the area would be evaluated according to the dominant building use.

The draft also proposes a compliance system in which developers or building owners must appoint energy auditors approved by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency to verify adherence to the energy-efficiency standards. Project plans will be checked for compliance before construction approval is granted, and any non-compliant designs must be corrected before receiving permission.

In addition, the proposal introduces a reporting mechanism covering various stages of construction, including project commencement, construction review, completion, and occupancy certification. To obtain an occupancy certificate, building owners must submit an energy performance report for two consecutive years after the building becomes operational.

The draft also includes incentives to encourage green construction. Developers who obtain recognized green building certifications from rating agencies such as IGBC, GRIHA, or ASSOCHAM GEM may receive an additional 0.25 floor area ratio (FAR) without paying extra fees. However, if the project fails to obtain the required certification, the additional floor area would be penalized with a fee ten times the normal planning permission charge.

The proposed amendments reflect the state government’s effort to promote sustainable urban development, expand EV infrastructure, and improve building energy performance as part of the broader shift toward cleaner energy and environmentally responsible construction practices.