MSRDC’s Green Initiative: Solar Power Project Along Samruddhi Mahamarg Unveiled

In a strategic move towards sustainable energy practices, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is set to embark on a ground-breaking solar power generation project along the Samruddhi Mahamarg.

The initiative, spearheaded by Mahasamruddhi Renewable Energy Ltd (MREL), the special purpose vehicle of MSRDC, aims to harness solar energy for captive power consumption across various MSRDC offices in Mumbai and key locations, including Nepean Sea Road, Bandra Reclamation, Pune, Nashik, and Aurangabad. The proposed solar power project is designed to generate between 150 to 200 megawatts, illuminating not only the Samruddhi Mahamarg but also existing and upcoming highways developed by MSRDC. This forward-thinking approach is anticipated to significantly reduce monthly power bills, ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for each interchange along Samruddhi Mahamarg, along with savings at tunnels on the Missing Link Expressway and Samruddhi Mahamarg where electricity consumption is high.

MREL has initiated the process by floating a request for proposal (RFP) to appoint a consultant responsible for conducting a feasibility study, preparing a detailed project report, and overseeing the bid process until a concession agreement is signed with the selected bidder. The project also explores different solar energy consumption models, including net metering, wherein system owners receive credits for contributing electricity to the grid. The final model selection will be guided by the consultant’s recommendations. The green energy initiative not only aligns with environmental sustainability goals but also contributes to the transformation of Samruddhi Mahamarg into an eco-friendly corridor. A peer review study of the available detailed project report (DPR) is also in the pipeline, presenting potential revenue stream models.

Additionally, MSRDC had previously conducted a DPR in 2021 for a solar power project at Samruddhi Mahamarg’s interchanges, setting the stage for continuous efforts in harnessing renewable energy for infrastructure development. As part of this commitment, a 9MW solar power project at two interchanges on Samruddhi Mahamarg is progressing, with two bidders expressing interest in the tendering process. This strategic foray into green energy not only underscores MSRDC’s commitment to sustainable practices but also positions Samruddhi Mahamarg as a beacon of environmental responsibility in India’s infrastructure landscape.