Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh is poised to achieve a significant feat, aligning with its rapid industrial growth. The Yogi government’s focus on bolstering industrial corridors and highways is accompanied by an innovative push towards renewable energy. A pioneering initiative is in progress to illuminate the Bundelkhand Expressway using solar power. The entire operational system of this extensive highway will rely on solar energy.

The Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEDA) is spearheading this groundbreaking project, marking the first instance in India where a major expressway is powered by solar energy.

Expression of interest issued by UPEDA

A senior official from the Uttar Pradesh government highlights the state’s strides in constructing and maintaining high-quality expressways and highways. Simultaneously, efforts are being directed towards integrating innovative renewable energy solutions. In alignment with Chief Minister Yogi’s vision, UPEDA is driving the implementation of a distinctive initiative to harness solar energy for the Bundelkhand Expressway.

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Presently, UPEDA has issued a ‘Letter of Expression of Interest.’ This signifies the transformation of the Bundelkhand Expressway into a Solar Expressway, with a comprehensive plan in place. The entire project will be executed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, involving large-scale solar panel deployment.

Solar-Powered identity for Bundelkhand Expressway

As disclosed by UPEDA, the 296 km-long Bundelkhand Expressway is slated to become a solar-powered expressway. The Chief Executive Officer is supervising the formulation of this action plan. Interested companies have been invited to submit applications through the ‘Expression of Interest’ letter issued by UPEDA.

Companies specializing in solar panels are encouraged to offer suggestions and submit applications to UPEDA’s email address, upeida2@gmail.com, by August 17 at 3 pm. The shortlisted companies will be invited for presentations, and upon finalization, the installation of solar panels will commence.

Development across three segments

UPEDA reveals that a 15-20 meters wide strip along the Bundelkhand Expressway will be designated as a solar park. Regarded as one of Uttar Pradesh’s most modern and well-equipped expressways, the 296 km-long 4-lane Bundelkhand Expressway comprises a main carriage-way and a service lane as its two main segments. A strip of empty land, around 15-20 meters wide, separates the two segments and serves as a buffer from agricultural areas. This vacant area is now earmarked for the installation of solar panels, thereby transforming the entire expressway into a solar-powered energy source.