Yogi Government Unveils Ambitious Plan to Transform 17 Cities into Solar Hubs

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh is set to revolutionize the energy landscape by transforming 17 major cities, including Ayodhya and Varanasi, into solar cities. Following the successful development of urban centers as solar hubs, the government is now gearing up to extend this solar revolution to rural areas, envisaging the creation of solar villages.

During a recent session in the Legislative Assembly, Energy Minister Ake Sharma affirmed that under Chief Minister Yogi's visionary leadership, Uttar Pradesh is poised to become a frontrunner in the realm of solar energy. The state's maiden solar city project is unfolding in Ayodhya, where a 40-megawatt solar energy plant is taking shape, with 14 megawatts already in production out of the targeted 40.

Chief Bureau R.L. Pandey reports from Lucknow that this ambitious plan aligns with the Yogi government's commitment to promoting solar energy across the state. The focus extends beyond urban landscapes, with intentions to create solar villages following the blueprint of solar cities. Ayodhya, designated as the inaugural solar city, is witnessing rapid progress, and Varanasi is next in line for the large-scale installation of solar plants.

In response to a question posed in the Legislative Assembly, Energy Minister Ake Sharma stated, "Uttar Pradesh will soon emerge as a leading state in the field of solar energy." He highlighted the commencement of Ayodhya's transformation into a solar city, marked by the installation of a rooftop solar plant on the Circuit House. Currently producing 14 megawatts of solar energy, Ayodhya boasts over 2,500 street lights powered by solar energy.

The inauguration of a solar boat in the Sarayu River by the Chief Minister and the deployment of water ATMs operating on solar energy underscore Ayodhya's commitment to sustainable practices. Varanasi has set an ambitious target of installing 25,000 rooftop solar plants, with active efforts underway.

As part of the government's integrated approach, preparations are underway to establish charging stations on a large scale across the state, essential for fostering the adoption of electric vehicles. The Yogi government's commitment to prioritize these initiatives aligns with broader goals for a sustainable energy future.

Incentivizing Performance and Fostering Consumer Engagement

In a parallel development, the UPCL Corporation has introduced a performance incentive scheme for outsourced workers based on revenue growth. Eligible contractual employees at sub-centers stand to receive 10% of their monthly salary as performance incentives in the fiscal year 2024-25. A further 10% incentive, totaling 20%, will be granted in the financial year 2025-26 if there is an increase in revenue related to electricity supplied to these sub-centers.

Moreover, in a move to acknowledge the dedication of outsourced employees, the corporation has increased the amount of compensation for death during departmental work from 5 lakhs to 7.50 lakhs.

In the realm of consumer engagement, the UPCL Consumer App, launched to initiate the Trust Billing system, has garnered widespread acclaim. With 2,95,000 users currently leveraging the app, it has emerged as a key tool in streamlining consumer interactions. In the fiscal year 2023-24, 31,000 consumers utilized the app to make payments exceeding Rs. 7 crores, signaling a positive response to technological advancements in the energy sector.

Addressing concerns related to electricity theft, Minister Ake Sharma highlighted the proactive stance of the government, with 1,25,047 cases of electricity theft leading to FIRs. The resolution of 13,995 cases under the OTS scheme underscores the government's commitment to curbing illegal activities in the energy sector.

As Uttar Pradesh takes bold strides towards a sustainable and solar-powered future, these initiatives showcase a holistic approach to energy transformation, embracing urban, rural, and consumer-centric strategies. The Yogi government's vision is set to redefine the energy landscape and set an inspiring precedent for the nation.