Hyderabad-based Trinity Cleantech Private Limited (TCPL) has become a prime example of a business that emerged out of necessity. Formerly known as Trinity Transformers Pvt Ltd (TTPL), TCPL was founded in 2012 after acquiring a struggling manufacturing transformer company. The company’s journey took a significant turn when it entered the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, a move prompted by the lack of information on how EVs would operate in India.
M Raj Kumar, CEO of Trinity Cleantech Private Limited, shared that the transformation occurred when Olectra, in partnership with BYD, introduced electric buses to India in 2017-18. TCPL, leveraging its expertise in power equipment manufacturing, was approached to design and develop EV charging points for Olectra. Kumar explained, “TCPL was born out of compulsion to serve Olectra, the EV business of our Group. We sent our resources to China to gain knowledge about EV charging. We started with designing EV charging stations for the road transport departments of the States. As the States that bought Olectra buses also placed orders for charging infrastructure, that’s how we started and are growing further on this opportunity.”
TCPL’s Growth Trajectory:
With the acquisition of Olectra by Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), TCPL recognized the burgeoning potential of the EV charging sector. As ETO Motors entered the market for manufacturing e-autos, TCPL adapted its services accordingly. Initially focusing on captive charging infrastructure, TCPL expanded its services to include public charging. The company’s operations are categorized into charger manufacturing, energy trading (Charge Point Operator), and Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts.
Presently, TCPL assembles chargers at its Jadcherla manufacturing plant for internal use. However, by 2022, the company intends to sell chargers to customers. TCPL has already installed 1,000 chargers across India and aims to sell 1,000 more this year. By September, four types of chargers catering to a range of EVs, from two-wheelers to premium cars, will be available at an approximate cost of Rs 10,000 per charger. TCPL also offers a mobile application named Thunder Plus, available on Android and iOS, further establishing its brand presence.
TCPL’s Focus on Charging Infrastructure:
TCPL has set up 120 charging points at Metros and Railway Stations in Hyderabad, and around 100 e-autos from ETO Motors are supported with TCPL’s charging infrastructure in Gujarat. Major markets for TCPL include Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. While TCPL has already achieved significant milestones, the focus is now on expanding its operations by setting up more public charging points.
Kumar acknowledges the challenge of balancing the ratio of charging stations to EVs. He notes that while EV makers argue for more charging points, charging infrastructure providers emphasize the need for more EVs to utilize public stations. Kumar highlights that personal vehicles typically charge at home, and growth in the commercial EV segment is necessary to spur the adoption of charging infrastructure.
Government Initiatives and Challenges:
Regarding the approach of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh governments towards EVs, Kumar praises Telangana’s aggressive stance and creation of a nodal agency for renewable energy development. However, he notes that more coordination with power utilities is needed. Kumar points out that the lack of a holistic approach to EV adoption is hindering progress in Andhra Pradesh.
Challenges faced by TCPL as a Charge Point Operator (CPO) include securing land for charging stations and ensuring a stable power supply. Kumar appreciates Delhi’s approach to addressing these challenges, providing land to CPOs along with a commitment to ensure power supply.
The Future of EV Charging:
TCPL is actively exploring new technologies such as plug and charge and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems. The company is also focusing on solar backup and carbon credit certificates, aiming to align with the future trajectory of the industry. As EV adoption expands, TCPL recognizes the need for substantial investments in charging infrastructure. TCPL is ready to meet this demand with plans to establish 1,500 charging points this year and 5,000 more next year, targeting revenue of Rs 25 crore in the next fiscal year.
