Electric vehicles (EV) play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and helping the country meet its sustainability targets. By reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based grid power for manufacturing, EV companies can further increase their sustainability footprint and reduce carbon emissions from their operations.

With this goal in mind, Ashok Leyland has installed a 1.5 MW rooftop solar project at its EV manufacturing facility in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

The solar system is expected to meet up to 50% of the plant’s electricity needs.

The project is expected to help Ashok Leyland save around ₹13 million (~$137,630) in the first year, based on an assumed grid tariff of ₹8.5 (~$0.089)/kWh.

According to the Vaahan dashboard, Q1 2026 saw the sale of 1,518 electric buses. Switch Mobility Automotive, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, led the segment, selling 542 units.

The project is expected to have a payback period of three years.

The project was commissioned by Hinduja Renewables last October. The installation uses TOPCon solar modules and string inverters.

The solar system supports Ashok Leyland’s RE100 commitment to source 100% renewable electricity by 2030.

Explaining the challenges behind the project, Deepak Thakur, MD & CEO, Hinduja Renewables, said that the project was executed while construction work was underway at the EV manufacturing facility.

Additionally, the monsoon season created manpower and scheduling challenges. Hinduja Renewables said that it managed the work through parallel execution, early indoor activities, and weather-linked groundwork planning.

The rooftop system uses a standing-seam roofing system. Non-penetrating clamp solutions for mounting structures were used, along with walkways to help preserve roof integrity and reduce water leakage risk.

Hinduja Renewables has an operating portfolio of over 300 MW across India and develops rooftop and utility-scale renewable energy projects.

According to Mercom India Research’s Q4 & Annual 2025 India Rooftop Solar Market Report, India’s rooftop solar capacity grew to 7.1 GW in the calendar year 2025, an over 123% year-over-year jump from 3.2 GW in 2024.