India’s First Solar Expressway in Uttar Pradesh

December 2, 2023

Environment

Context: The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has set aside 1,700 hectares of land along with the Bundelkhand Expressway for setting up solar energy plants.

Solar Expressway: UP’s Vision for Sustainable Expressway Network

UP Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) is creating the project blueprint. It will play a vital role in the development of the Bundelkhand area.
UP is looking at powering other expressways in the state, including Purvanchal Expressway, Agra-Lucknow Expressway, Gorakhpur Link Expressway, etc. with solar energy.
The UP government is setting up brownfield and greenfield solar and thermal energy projects across the state in the backdrop of peak hour energy demand breaching the 28,000 MW mark.

Basis	Greenfield Project	Brownfield Project
Definition	It is built from scratch, since there is no existing infrastructure or building on the site.	It is built on land that has been used previously but is lying vacant or unused now.
Development Level	Undeveloped	Developed
Characteristics	Green, clean and pristine.	Contaminated
Treatment	Ready for development.	Need treatment before development.

About Bundelkhand Expressway:

It is a four-lane expressway that will link the Bundelkhand area from the national capital Delhi through the Agra-Lucknow Expressway and Yamuna Expressway.
Aim: Promoting green and renewable energy, and bolstering the e-vehicle charging infrastructure.

What is the significance of the Solar Expressway?

It will cater to the energy needs of the houses along the expressway and serve as a foundation for e-mobility and local socioeconomic development.
The use of solar energy will cut down on carbon emissions and save on energy costs.
It will generate a significant amount of green energy thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
It will further lead to economic growth in terms of enhanced open grid access.