EVs could be Mumbai’s solar grid solution

Electric vehicles could play a key role in helping cities like Mumbai run more efficiently on solar energy, according to a new study from Columbia Engineering. Researchers found that EV batteries can act as backup power sources during short disruptions such as cloud cover or heavy rain, which are common in tropical regions.

Mumbai, which faces frequent monsoon showers and growing energy demand, could benefit from this approach. Instead of investing heavily in new grid infrastructure, parked electric cars could feed stored energy back into the grid during brief drops in solar generation. Once sunlight returns, the vehicles can recharge.