Himachal Pradesh Introduces Rule Requiring EV Charging Stations in New Buildings Across Commercial and Public Projects

The Himachal Pradesh government has made the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations compulsory in certain categories of new buildings. The provision has been introduced under the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning (17th Amendment) Rules, 2026, according to PTI reports. 

The rule applies to commercial buildings, public and semi-public establishments, as well as new real estate developments. Charging infrastructure will now form part of the building approval process for such projects. 

Alignment With Building Regulations 

The amendment has been aligned with model building bye-laws that encourage the integration of EV charging facilities in new developments. Town and Country Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani said the change is part of planning updates related to urban infrastructure. 

According to the state government, the policy has been introduced to prepare cities and towns for wider adoption of electric mobility. The changes form part of a set of updates to planning rules governing construction and development activities across the state. 

Additional FAR for Energy-Efficient Buildings 

The government has also reinforced the Himachal Pradesh Energy Conservation Building Code (HPECBC) Rules, 2018. 

Under these rules, certain buildings, including hotels, hospitals, educational institutions and shopping complexes can receive an additional 0.25 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) above the base FAR of 1.75. 

The benefit is available for projects with a built-up area of 750 square metres or more, provided they comply with Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) standards. 

Mandatory Energy Audit for Projects 

Developers seeking to avail the additional FAR must appoint Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) authorised energy auditors. 

These auditors will review project designs and monitor construction to ensure that ECBC standards are followed. Their certification will be required before municipal authorities issue occupancy certificates. 

Reports suggest that the requirement is intended to ensure compliance with energy efficiency norms during both planning and construction stages. 

Premium FAR Charges Introduced 

The government has also notified provisions under the 18th Amendment Rules, 2026 relating to Premium FAR in real estate projects. 

Under the new framework, developers may purchase additional FAR by paying a fee. Charges start at ₹3,000 per square metre for up to 0.25 premium FAR and increase to ₹7,000 per square metre for ratios exceeding 0.50. 

The charges will apply to new projects and new blocks within ongoing developments. Projects that have already received completion certificates will not be affected. 

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Conclusion 

The amendments introduce new requirements related to EV charging infrastructure, energy-efficient construction and premium FAR charges. The rules will apply to new developments and future construction projects across Himachal Pradesh. 

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