Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has converted most of his official fleet to electric vehicles (EV) while pursuing a green initiative, phasing out fossil fuel vehicles and powering the premises with solar energy.
Addressing a presser, the Governor spoke about the ambitious target to transform Raj Bhawan into a net-zero energy campus. “My objective is to bring down use of fossil fuel at all levels. Four EVs have been added to the fleet and a 150-kilowatt solar power plant is operational, with an additional 400 kilowatts set to be installed soon. Once the new plant is functional, Raj Bhavan’s monthly electricity bill, which currently stands at around Rs 3 lakh, will drop to zero,” Kambhampati said.
He further stated that Made-in-India EVs, from cars to two-wheelers, have been procured to support eco-friendly mobility within the campus. Raj Bhawan employees are also encouraged to switch to EVs as part of the special drive.
Kambhampati urged citizens to adopt clean energy solutions and electric mobility, not merely as a necessity but as a responsibility. “With generous subsidies under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, solar energy is now more accessible than ever, making sustainable choices a reality for all. These decisive measures are important for reducing dependence on fossil fuels, promoting energy security, and embracing a greener, healthier tomorrow,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo, who was present on the occasion, praised the Governor for leading from the front. He further stated that the state government has adopted a policy to source power in all government buildings from solar energy. “All government offices are being converted to solar power. We are also in the process of putting in place ACs and other equipment run by renewable energy,” he said.
Subsequently, solar panels will be installed in all government residential quarters, he added.
Singh Deo, who holds the Energy portfolio, further stated that the use of electric vehicles (EVs) will soon become a prerequisite for all government employees posted at state secretariat. “All government employees who come to the secretariat should opt for EVs. Otherwise, passes will not be issued to them to enter the secretariat,” he said.
He stated that this will encourage people to replace their old petrol-diesel vehicles.
