Building Codes and EV Policies: Keys to India’s Urban Clean Energy Transition

India’s cities can significantly accelerate the country’s clean energy transition by enforcing the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and expanding support for electric mobility, according to a new analysis by World Resources Institute (WRI) India. The findings were presented at Connect Karo, WRI’s annual event held in New Delhi.

Introduced in 2007 by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power, the ECBC aims to promote energy efficiency in the building sector. While several states have notified the code, WRI’s study revealed that city-level enforcement is lacking. Of the 10 cities studied—including Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi—six are in states that have adopted ECBC, yet none have enforced it. Conversely, Pune, Rajkot, Surat, and Nagpur, in states where ECBC has not been notified, have initiated their own measures to improve building efficiency.

The report emphasized that urban energy transition strategies often rely heavily on rooftop solar, overlooking the potential of energy efficiency in buildings. Chennai and Pune, for example, have achieved 100% energy-efficient street lighting, while Bengaluru and Delhi follow at 88% and 65%, respectively. Surat was the only city identified with a heat resilience plan that incorporates energy efficiency.

On transport, Delhi and Bengaluru have made notable progress in electrifying public systems, driven by supportive national and state policies. Delhi’s EV policy, seen as a model for others, includes clear roadmaps, incentives, and robust charging infrastructure. Experts underscored that central financial support remains vital for reducing the upfront costs of EV infrastructure and enabling wider adoption across states.

Key Takeaways:

• ECBC Enforcement Gap: While six states have notified the code, no studied city has enforced it.
• City Initiatives: Pune, Rajkot, Surat, and Nagpur are pushing energy-efficient buildings despite no state ECBC.
• Efficiency Achievements: Chennai and Pune lead with 100% energy-efficient street lighting.
• EV Leadership: Delhi’s comprehensive EV policy serves as a model for other states.
• Need for Support: Central government funding is essential to ease EV infrastructure costs.

Strengthening building codes and expanding EV policies together can transform Indian cities into engines of sustainable growth and climate resilience.