- The administration has already started its efforts to establish Ayodhya as the inaugural solar city
- The initiative aims to set up 25,000 rooftop solar plants in Varanasi
In order to promote the adoption of solar energy, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced its agenda to transform 17 major cities of the state into solar cities including revered cities of Ayodhya and Varanasi.
Through this initiative, the government will first establish solar cities, and after that, they will start making solar villages on the same pattern. In fact, the administration has already started its efforts to establish Ayodhya as the inaugural solar city.
“Progress in this endeavor is well underway, with significant strides witnessed in the installation of solar infrastructure. Concurrently, preparations are underway to inaugurate a large-scale solar plant in Varanasi, further cementing Uttar Pradesh’s status as a frontrunner in the solar energy sector,” an official statement from the Chief Minister’s office informed.
“Notably, Ayodhya stands at the forefront of these efforts, with the successful commencement of solar energy production. A remarkable 14 MW of solar energy is already being generated in Ayodhya, while an additional 40 MW capacity has already been installed and the production is poised to start soon”, said state’s Energy Minister A K Sharma.
The Ayodhya’s solar city project aims to install almost 2,500 solar-powered streetlights, which will enhance the city’s commitment to sustainability.
CM Yogi Adityanath has recently inaugurated a solar boat service in Ayodhya. Ayodhya already features solar-powered ATMs and trees at 40 intersections.
Following Ayodhya’s lead, Varanasi is now embarking on a similar path by planning to install rooftop solar plants on government buildings. The initiative aims to set up 25,000 rooftop solar plants in Varanasi, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in solar innovation.