SOLAR ENERGY | WATER SUSTAINABILITY | SKILL DEVELOPMENT
PROJECT : THE VRINDAVAN-MATHURA SOLAR E-MOBILITY HUB
INTRODUCTION
The proposed Solar Charging Station for E-rickshaws at the Vrindavan-Mathura pilgrimage
site represents a sustainable infrastructure project aligned with India's green energy
transition. This initiative aims to support clean transportation in a spiritually significant
location that receives millions of visitors annually, while reducing dependence on grid
electricity and lowering carbon emissions. The project will utilize a 2.5-acre land parcel to
establish a comprehensive solar-powered charging infrastructure that will serve the local e-
rickshaw community and promote sustainable mobility solutions.
BACKGROUND & NEED FOR THE PROJECT
Rapid urbanization and transportation challenges: The Vrindavan-Mathura region
has experienced significant growth in visitor numbers, increasing pressure on local
transportation systems. E-rickshaws have emerged as a popular mode of transport for
pilgrims and locals alike, providing last-mile connectivity while reducing noise and air pollution
compared to conventional auto-rickshaws. However, the current lack of dedicated charging
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infrastructure forces operators to rely on residential electrical connections or improvised
charging points, creating safety hazards and inefficiencies.
Grid dependency issues: The existing e-rickshaw charging practices depend entirely on
grid-based electricity, which faces reliability issues in the region. Frequent power outages
disrupt charging schedules, affecting driver incomes and passenger convenience. Additionally,
the grid electricity is primarily generated from coal-based thermal power plants, undermining
the environmental benefits of e-vehicles. The high electricity costs also reduce the economic
advantages for e-rickshaw operators.
Solar as a sustainable solution: A solar charging station offers a reliable, clean, and
economically viable alternative. By harnessing abundant solar energy, the project will provide
consistent charging services independent of grid fluctuations. This will reduce operating costs
for e-rickshaw drivers, extend battery life through standardized charging, and significantly
decrease carbon emissions. The station will also serve as a demonstration project to promote
renewable energy adoption in the transportation sector.
ALIGNMENT WITH GOVERNMENT POLICIES
CENTRAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES:
• The project aligns perfectly with the PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja
Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) scheme that promotes solar energy in rural
areas
• Supports the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 that aims to
achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and electric vehicles by 2030
• Complements the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Chemistry
Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing that encourages domestic production of EV
components
• Advances the Green Energy Corridor project goals by creating EV infrastructure
powered by renewable energy
UTTAR PRADESH STATE POLICIES:
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• Directly supports the Uttar Pradesh Electric Vehicle Manufacturing and Mobility Policy
2022, which aims to establish the state as a preferred destination for EV
manufacturing
• Aligns with the UP Solar Energy Policy 2022 that offers subsidies and incentives for
solar projects
• Contributes to the state's target of deploying 70% EVs in commercial fleets by 2030
• Strengthens the UP Tourism Policy 2022 by enhancing sustainable transportation at
key pilgrimage sites
MAKE IN INDIA INITIATIVE:
• Creates opportunities for local manufacturing of EV charging equipment and solar
components
• Promotes indigenous technology adoption in renewable energy and electric mobility
sectors
• Supports domestic value chain development for solar panels and battery systems
• Reduces import dependency for energy needs through localized power generation
SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT
Employment Generation:
• Creates direct employment for 20-25 individuals in station operations, maintenance,
and security
• Supports indirect employment through service sector growth around the charging hub
• Provides stable income opportunities for e-rickshaw drivers through reliable charging
access
• Develops skilled workforce in renewable energy and EV technologies
Local Economy Boost:
• Increases disposable income for e-rickshaw operators by reducing charging costs by
approximately 30-40%
• Extends operational hours for drivers due to reliable charging, increasing daily
earnings potential
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• Stimulates ancillary businesses like food stalls and convenience stores near the
charging hub
Community Development:
• Improves energy access in the region through a decentralized power generation
system
• Creates a model for community-owned renewable energy projects
• Reduces urban congestion and improves air quality, benefiting local residents' health
• Enhances the region's reputation as an eco-friendly pilgrimage destination, potentially
increasing tourism
Consumer Benefits
Pilgrim Experience Enhancement:
• Provides reliable, clean transportation options for the millions of visitors to
Vrindavan-Mathura
• Reduces transportation costs through more affordable e-rickshaw fares enabled by
lower operating costs
• Improves air quality and reduces noise pollution, creating a more peaceful pilgrimage
environment
• Offers a modern, efficient transit system in line with the spiritual significance of the
location
E-rickshaw Operator Advantages:
• Reduces daily charging costs by 30-40% compared to grid electricity
• Eliminates unpredictable power outages that disrupt charging schedules
• Provides standardized charging that extends battery life by up to 20%
• Creates a dedicated facility with amenities for drivers during charging periods
Environmental Impact:
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• Eliminates approximately 350-400 tons of CO2 emissions annually compared to grid-
charged vehicles
• Reduces local air pollution from conventional auto-rickshaws and diesel generators
• Decreases noise pollution in spiritually significant areas
• Conserves water compared to conventional power generation methods
Technical Specifications and Capacity Analysis
Solar Plant Capacity and E-rickshaw Charging Capacity:
• Proposed solar capacity: 500 kW peak generation
• Average daily energy production: Approximately 2,000 kWh (considering 4 sun-hours
equivalent)
• Typical e-rickshaw battery specifications: 48V, 100-120Ah lithium-ion batteries (4.8-
5.76 kWh capacity)
• Average charging time: 3-4 hours for a full charge from 20% battery level
• Daily charging capacity: Approximately 80-90 e-rickshaws (considering sequential
charging throughout operational hours)
• Charging points: 20 AC slow chargers and 5 DC fast chargers
• Energy storage system: 200 kWh battery bank to ensure 24/7 charging availability
Innovative Business Model
Subscription-Based Model:
• Monthly subscription packages (₹1,500-2,000) offering unlimited charging with
priority access
• Tiered membership levels with additional benefits like battery health monitoring and
maintenance services
• Group subscriptions for fleet operators at discounted rates
• Loyalty program with rewards for consistent usage
Pay-Per-Use Option:
• Competitive per-kWh rates (20-30% below grid electricity costs)
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• Mobile app-based payment system with QR code integration
• Prepaid charging cards for drivers without smartphones
• Time-of-day pricing to encourage off-peak usage
Integrated Services:
• Battery swapping facility for emergency needs
• Small convenience store and refreshment area
• Basic maintenance services for e-rickshaws
• Driver rest area with amenities
Advantages Over Current Charging Methods:
• Cost-effectiveness: 30-40% cheaper than residential electricity rates and without the
fixed monthly charges
• Reliability: Eliminates dependency on inconsistent grid power supply
• Safety: Professional charging setup eliminates fire hazards from improper home
charging
• Legitimacy: Eliminates the legal and ethical issues of electricity theft
• Battery longevity: Standardized charging protocols extend battery life by 15-20%
• Convenience: Dedicated facility with amenities versus improvised solutions
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS
Solar Plant Capacity:
• Proposed solar capacity: 500 kW peak generation
• Average daily energy production: Approximately 2,000 kWh (considering 4 sun-hours
equivalent)
• Land requirement: 2.5 acres (estimated land cost: ₹3 crore if purchased; proposed to
be provided by government)
E-rickshaw Charging Requirements:
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• Typical e-rickshaw battery specifications: 48V, 120-150Ah lead-acid batteries (5.76-
7.2 kWh capacity)
• Standard charging time: 6-8 hours for lead-acid battery models
• Lithium-ion models: 4-5 hours charging time (Mahindra Treo Yaari: 2.5 hours)
• Average power consumption per full charge: 6-8 kWh depending on battery capacity
• Battery lifespan impact: Proper charging facilities can extend battery life by 20-30%
Charging Station Capacity:
• Daily charging capacity: Approximately 50-60 e-rickshaws with standard lead-acid
batteries
• Capacity increases to 70-80 vehicles if mix includes faster-charging lithium-ion models
• Charging points: 30 AC slow chargers (for 6-8 hour charging) and 5 DC fast chargers
(for lithium-ion batteries)
• Energy storage system: 200 kWh battery bank to ensure 24/7 charging availability
• Battery swapping facility for 10-15 vehicles per day as emergency backup
Innovative Business Model
Current Charging Costs Analysis:
• UP electricity tariff for residential connections: ₹7-8 per kWh (plus fixed charges)
• Commercial connection rates: ₹9-11 per kWh (plus higher fixed charges)
• Average monthly electricity cost for e-rickshaw operators: ₹2,500-3,000
• Hidden costs of residential charging: potential wiring damage, fire hazards, irregular
voltage
Solar Charging Station Revenue Model:
1. Subscription-Based Plans:
✓ Basic Plan: ₹1,800/month for 25 charges (₹72 per charge) - 20% savings vs.
grid
✓ Premium Plan: ₹2,200/month for unlimited charging with priority access
✓ Fleet Plan: ₹1,600/vehicle/month for operators with 5+ vehicles
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2. Pay-Per-Use Pricing:
✓ Standard charge (6-8 hours): ₹80 per session (vs. ₹96-112 grid cost)
✓ Fast charge (for lithium-ion): ₹100 per session
✓ Battery swapping service: ₹150 per swap
✓ Discounted rates during off-peak hours: 15% reduction
3. Ancillary Revenue Streams:
✓ Refreshment area and convenience store: ₹5,000-7,000 daily
✓ Basic e-rickshaw maintenance services: ₹50,000-70,000 monthly
✓ Advertisement space rental: ₹20,000-30,000 monthly
✓ Battery health check and maintenance: ₹100 per service
Unit Economics:
✓ Solar power generation cost: ₹3-4 per kWh (vs. UP grid rate of ₹7-11 per kWh)
✓ Operational cost per charge: ₹40-50 including maintenance and staffing
✓ Average revenue per user (ARPU): ₹2,000-2,400 monthly
✓ Payback period: 5-6 years (excluding land cost)
✓ IRR: 18-20% over 15 years
✓ Customer acquisition cost: ₹500-600 per driver
Advantages Over Current Charging Methods:
✓ Cost-effectiveness: 20-30% cheaper than residential electricity rates without
fixed charges
✓ Reliability: Eliminates dependency on inconsistent grid power supply with
frequent outages
✓ Safety: Professional charging setup eliminates fire hazards from improper
home charging
✓ Legitimacy: Eliminates the legal risks associated with electricity theft
(estimated 15-20% of current charging)
✓ Battery longevity: Standardized charging protocols extend battery life by 20-
30%
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✓ Convenience: Dedicated facility with amenities and vehicle servicing vs.
improvised solutions
✓ Time optimization: Drivers can rest, socialize, or handle other tasks during
charging periods
Customer Retention Strategy:
• Loyalty program awarding points for consistent usage
• Referral benefits for bringing new drivers
• Community building through driver support groups
• Seasonal promotions during pilgrimage peak times
• Free battery health checkups quarterly
• Digital payment wallet with cashback incentives
Project Description
Scope:
The Vrindavan-Mathura Solar E-Mobility Hub represents a comprehensive clean energy
infrastructure initiative under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project
encompasses:
1. Primary Solar Generation Infrastructure:
▪ Installation of a 500 kW grid-connected solar photovoltaic system utilizing
Make in India certified equipment
▪ Smart energy management system with predictive maintenance capabilities
▪ Energy storage solutions (200+ kWh) for 24/7 operations independent of grid
availability
▪ Weather monitoring station for performance optimization
2. Multi-modal Charging Infrastructure:
▪ 30 AC slow charging points (48V system) for e-rickshaws with visual indicators
of charging status
▪ 5 DC fast charging points compatible with lithium-ion battery models
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▪ 10 battery swapping stations with standardized battery packs for immediate
power restoration
▪ 15 dedicated e-bike charging points to promote additional clean mobility
options
▪ Scalable design allowing 30% capacity expansion without major infrastructure
modifications
3. Integration with Existing Transport Ecosystem:
▪ Seamless connection with identified e-rickshaw routes serving major
pilgrimage sites
▪ Strategic positioning near existing conventional transport terminals to
facilitate modal shift
▪ Digital integration with local tourism mobility applications
▪ Synchronization with pilgrimage site schedules to optimize capacity utilization
4. Supporting Facilities:
▪ Driver rest area with basic amenities (drinking water, sanitation facilities,
shaded seating)
▪ Digital kiosks for charging status monitoring and payment processing
▪ Basic maintenance bay for minor e-rickshaw repairs and battery diagnostics
▪ Safety systems including fire suppression equipment and emergency response
protocols
▪ Training facility for e-mobility skill development
Location & Beneficiaries:
The proposed 2.5-acre site will be developed in alignment with the Vrindavan Development
Vision Plan, ensuring architectural harmony with the spiritual character of the region while
delivering modern clean energy solutions. The location strategy includes:
1. Geographic Positioning:
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▪ Primary facility within 1-2 km radius of major pilgrimage centers to maximize
accessibility
▪ Positioned near existing e-rickshaw congregation points based on preliminary
traffic analysis
▪ Designed with multiple access points to prevent congestion during peak
pilgrimage periods
▪ Strategic placement to minimize shadowing effect on solar arrays throughout
the year
2. Direct Beneficiaries:
▪ E-rickshaw operators serving the Vrindavan-Mathura corridor
▪ Local small business operators dependent on last-mile connectivity
▪ E-bike users including tourists and local residents
3. Indirect Beneficiaries:
▪ Estimated 25,000+ daily pilgrims during peak season benefiting from reduced
air and noise pollution
▪ Local municipalities through formalized transportation operations and reduced
illegal electricity connections
▪ Grid infrastructure through peak load reduction (approximately 350-400 kW
during evening hours)
▪ Local healthcare system through reduced respiratory ailment incidence from
improved air quality
4. Community Impact:
▪ Creation of a clean transport hub demonstrating sustainable mobility solutions
▪ Development of local expertise in renewable energy and e-mobility
technologies
▪ Establishment of a replicable model for other religious tourism centers across
India
▪ Enhanced visitor experience through quieter, cleaner transportation options
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Timeline & Phases:
Phase 1: Pre-implementation (6 months)
• Months 1-2:
▪ Comprehensive site assessment and geotechnical investigation
▪ Detailed energy demand analysis based on e-rickshaw operator surveys
▪ Traffic flow analysis and charging pattern optimization
▪ Environmental impact assessment and grid interconnection study
• Months 3-4:
▪ Stakeholder consultations with Rickshaw Union, Municipal Authorities, and
Tourism Department
▪ Alignment with Vrindavan Development Vision Plan authorities
▪ Architectural design development respecting local cultural aesthetics
▪ Technical specification finalization and technology selection
• Months 5-6:
▪ Regulatory clearances and permit acquisition from relevant authorities
▪ PPP agreement finalization with defined roles and responsibilities
▪ Procurement planning and vendor identification with Make in India compliance
▪ Financial closure and disbursement scheduling
Phase 2: Implementation (12 months)
• Months 1-3:
o Site preparation, boundary establishment, and foundation work
o Utility connections (water, electricity, internet) establishment
o Access road development and drainage systems installation
o Security infrastructure implementation
• Months 4-7:
o Solar array installation with smart tracking systems where applicable
o Power conditioning units and control systems implementation
o Battery storage systems installation with thermal management
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o Grid interconnection with appropriate safety mechanisms
• Months 8-10:
o Charging infrastructure installation with smart metering capabilities
o Battery swapping station setup with inventory management systems
o E-bike charging points installation with theft-prevention mechanisms
o Driver amenities development and digital interfaces implementation
• Months 11-12:
o Comprehensive system integration and commissioning
o Staff training and standard operating procedure development
o Trial operations with limited user group
o Performance optimization based on initial operational data
Phase 3: Expansion and Optimization (18 months)
• Months 1-6:
o Full-scale operations with comprehensive data collection
o User experience assessment and service refinement
o Energy generation and consumption pattern analysis
o Initial performance reporting to stakeholders
• Months 7-12:
o Operational efficiency improvements based on data analytics
o Implementation of additional service offerings based on user feedback
o Capacity utilization optimization through revised pricing strategies
o Mid-term impact assessment across environmental and economic parameters
• Months 13-18:
o Feasibility study for capacity expansion or replication
o Integration with broader smart city initiatives if applicable
o Long-term sustainability assessment and business model refinement
o Development of expansion roadmap for additional sites
Objectives & Benefits
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Social & Economic Impact:
1. Employment Generation:
o Direct job creation: 25-30 full-time positions including station operators,
maintenance technicians, and administrative staff
o Indirect employment: 50-60 positions in ancillary services including
refreshment vendors, cleaning staff, and security personnel
o Skill development for 200+ individuals annually in renewable energy and e-
mobility sectors
o Creation of 5-7 specialized technical roles for solar PV maintenance and energy
management
o Formation of 3-4 new micro-enterprises for battery refurbishment and e-
rickshaw components
2. Economic Benefits for E-rickshaw Operators:
o Reduction in charging costs by 25-35% compared to grid electricity,
translating to ₹700-900 monthly savings per operator
o Extended battery life by 20-30% through standardized charging parameters,
reducing replacement costs by ₹4,000-5,000 annually
o Increased operational hours by 1-2 hours daily due to reliable charging access,
generating additional income of ₹1,500-2,000 monthly
o Reduced downtime from power outages, preventing income loss of ₹300-400
per occurrence
o Access to formalized financial services through documented charging history
establishing creditworthiness
3. Tourism Enhancement:
o Improved visitor experience through reliable, clean transportation options
o Enhanced mobility for approximately 9 million annual pilgrims visiting
Vrindavan-Mathura
o Reduced congestion at key pilgrimage sites through organized e-mobility
solutions
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o Alignment with sustainable tourism principles attracting environmentally
conscious visitors
o Potential increase in average tourist stay duration by 0.5-1 day due to
improved mobility options
4. Public Health Benefits:
o Reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels by an estimated 5-7% in immediate
vicinity
o Decreased noise pollution by 10-15 decibels compared to conventional auto-
rickshaws
o Avoidance of approximately 350-400 tons of CO2 emissions annually
o Reduction in respiratory ailments among transport operators and frequent
commuters
o Decreased exposure to harmful pollutants for vulnerable pilgrims including
elderly visitors
Long-term Sustainability:
1. Energy Independence:
o Generation of approximately 2,000 kWh daily from solar resource, providing
energy self-sufficiency
o Reduction in grid dependency by 80-85% during operational hours
o Ability to maintain critical operations during grid outages
o Net-metering potential for feeding excess generation into the grid during low
demand periods
o Resilience against electricity tariff fluctuations and fuel price volatility
2. Environmental Sustainability:
o Lifetime carbon offset of approximately 12,000-15,000 tons over 25-year
project lifespan
o Water conservation of 1.5-2 million liters annually compared to conventional
power generation
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o Reduction in transportation-related pollution in environmentally sensitive
pilgrimage areas
o Demonstration of circular economy principles through battery recycling and
second-life applications
o Integration with additional sustainability features including:
▪ Rainwater harvesting systems capturing 1.2-1.5 million liters annually
▪ Green buffer zones with native species plantation
▪ Waste segregation and recycling facilities
▪ LED lighting systems with motion sensors
3. Grid Impact:
▪ Peak load reduction of 350-400 kW during evening hours
▪ Improved power quality in surrounding areas through reduced
unauthorized connections
▪ Potential grid support services through controlled charging during high
demand periods
▪ Contribution to grid stability through predictable load patterns
▪ Model for distributed energy resource integration with existing
infrastructure
4. E-mobility Ecosystem Development:
▪ Catalyst for increased e-rickshaw adoption with projected 15-20%
annual growth
▪ Support infrastructure for e-bike tourism development in the pilgrimage
circuit
▪ Technology demonstration platform for next-generation battery
technologies
▪ Creation of standardized operating procedures for similar installations
nationwide
▪ Development of local technical expertise in e-mobility solutions
5. Knowledge Generation:
▪ Creation of operational dataset for solar charging station performance
optimization
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▪ Development of best practices for e-mobility infrastructure in religious
tourism contexts
▪ Establishment of benchmark parameters for similar initiatives across
India
▪ Platform for academic research on renewable energy integration with
transportation
▪ Model for industry-academia collaboration in sustainable mobility
solutions
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