Himachal Pradesh Advances Green Energy Goals with New Urban Planning Rules
Shimla: In a significant push towards sustainable development, Rajesh Dharmani, the Minister for Town and Country Planning, announced on Tuesday that the Himachal Pradesh government is firmly committed to transforming the state into a green energy hub. This commitment is being realized through key legislative reforms aimed at promoting eco-friendly urban growth and infrastructure.
Mandatory EV Charging Stations Across Building Types
Under the newly implemented Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning (17th Amendment) Rules, 2026, the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations has been made compulsory in all commercial, public, semi-public buildings, and real estate projects. Minister Dharmani emphasized that this move aligns with model building bye-laws and is designed to ensure the state's infrastructure keeps pace with the rapidly increasing adoption of electric mobility. By integrating EV facilities into new constructions, Himachal aims to reduce carbon emissions and foster a cleaner transportation ecosystem.
Incentives for Energy-Efficient Construction
To further enhance energy conservation, the government has strictly enforced the HP Energy Conservation Building Code and Rules, 2018. Specialized buildings, including hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, and shopping complexes with a built-up area of 750 square metres or more, are now eligible for an additional 0.25 floor area ratio (FAR) over the base FAR of 1.75. This incentive is contingent upon compliance with the Energy Conservation Building Code standards, encouraging developers to adopt sustainable practices.
Developers must engage authorized energy auditors from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to review project designs and supervise construction phases. Only after this audit process can municipal authorities grant occupancy certificates, ensuring that all new buildings meet stringent energy efficiency criteria.
Structured Fee System for Premium FAR
Additionally, the 18th Amendment Rules, 2026 introduce a structured fee system for premium floor area ratio. Charges are set at Rs 3,000 per square metre for up to 0.25 premium FAR, escalating to Rs 7,000 per square metre for ratios exceeding 0.50 FAR. This system applies to both new and upcoming real estate projects, providing a clear financial framework for developers while promoting higher-density, sustainable urban development.
Minister Dharmani highlighted that these reforms are part of a broader strategy to position Himachal Pradesh as a leader in green energy initiatives. By combining mandatory EV infrastructure with incentives for energy-efficient buildings, the state aims to create a resilient and environmentally conscious urban landscape, driving long-term economic and ecological benefits.
