Samruddhi Mahamarg Becomes India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway, Pioneering Clean Energy Infrastructure – EQ
In Short : Maharashtra’s Samruddhi Mahamarg has become India’s first solar-powered expressway, generating 9 MW of solar energy at Karanja Lad and Mehkar interchanges. The power will illuminate the highway and supply the grid under a PPA with MSEDCL at ₹3.05 per unit. Managed by Mahasamruddhi Renewable Energy Ltd., the project plans to expand to 204 MW, promoting sustainable infrastructure and renewable integration.
In Detail : Maharashtra’s Samruddhi Mahamarg has become India’s first expressway to generate solar power, marking a milestone in sustainable infrastructure development. The 701-km corridor, connecting Nagpur and Mumbai, has initiated solar generation at two interchanges—Karanja Lad in Washim district and Mehkar in Buldhana district—starting with a combined capacity of 9 MW.
The generated solar power will be used to illuminate the expressway and supply electricity to the grid under a power purchase agreement with Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) at ₹3.05 per unit. This approach also provides additional revenue streams for the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).
The project is executed by Mahasamruddhi Renewable Energy Ltd., a special purpose vehicle formed by MSRDC. The first phase commenced with 5 MW of solar generation, and future expansions aim to reach a total capacity of 204 MW, maximizing energy efficiency with strategically placed panels along embankments and south-facing sections.
In addition to solar power, MSRDC is exploring wind energy integration by harnessing natural and vehicle-induced wind currents along the expressway. This multifaceted renewable strategy reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to incorporating clean energy into large-scale infrastructure projects.
Since its inauguration on December 11, 2022, the Samruddhi Mahamarg has facilitated the movement of over 2.5 crore vehicles, reducing travel time between Nagpur and Mumbai from 16 hours to 8 hours. The expressway passes through 10 districts and over 390 villages, significantly enhancing regional connectivity and economic development.
The expressway’s design includes provisions for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, optical fiber connectivity, and gas pipelines, transforming it into a ‘digital-ready’ utility corridor. These features support Maharashtra’s growing infrastructure needs and encourage the adoption of electric mobility.
The successful implementation of solar generation along the expressway sets a precedent for future infrastructure projects in India. It demonstrates the feasibility of integrating renewable energy into transportation corridors while contributing to national sustainability goals.
MSRDC’s initiative aligns with the Indian government’s broader strategy to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. Leveraging existing infrastructure for energy generation exemplifies innovative approaches to sustainable development and clean energy deployment.
Looking ahead, the expansion of solar and wind capacities along Samruddhi Mahamarg is expected to play a key role in meeting Maharashtra’s renewable energy targets. The project serves as a model for integrating clean energy solutions into infrastructure, paving the way for similar initiatives across India.
