Maharashtra has initiated the next phase of integrating renewable energy into transport infrastructure by inviting bids for the long-term procurement of solar open access power to support a 115 MW solar programme planned along the Hindu Hruday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Samruddhi Mahamarg. The move signals a broader shift towards reducing the carbon footprint of public infrastructure while creating cleaner energy assets linked to major mobility corridors. The tender has been issued through a special purpose vehicle established by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), which is overseeing renewable energy deployment along the expressway. The proposal seeks developers capable of supplying electricity under open access arrangements, allowing power generated from dedicated solar facilities to be transmitted directly to identified consumers through the state’s electricity network.
The planned solar open access initiative is expected to strengthen Maharashtra’s strategy of integrating renewable energy with transport infrastructure rather than relying solely on conventional grid electricity. Energy experts note that highways present significant opportunities for decentralised clean energy generation because of the availability of linear land parcels and associated infrastructure that can support utility-scale solar installations without requiring extensive new land acquisition. Industry observers believe the project could also improve the financial sustainability of large public infrastructure assets. Open access procurement allows long-term electricity sourcing at competitive tariffs while supporting private investment in renewable energy. Such models have gained momentum across India as state agencies, industries and infrastructure operators seek to reduce energy costs alongside carbon emissions. Urban planners say integrating renewable energy with transport corridors aligns with the broader objective of developing climate-resilient infrastructure capable of supporting future economic growth with lower environmental impacts. As cities expand and mobility demand rises, infrastructure authorities are increasingly expected to incorporate clean energy generation, efficient resource use and emissions reduction into project planning rather than treating them as separate initiatives.
The proposal also reflects the growing role of transport agencies in India’s clean energy transition. Beyond road construction, highway authorities are exploring ways to utilise public assets for renewable power generation, electric vehicle infrastructure and smart energy management. Such initiatives can contribute to national renewable energy targets while improving operational resilience and reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based electricity. Experts caution, however, that the long-term success of projects of this scale will depend on timely execution, transparent procurement, reliable grid connectivity and effective coordination between transport, power and regulatory agencies. Maintaining environmental safeguards during project implementation will also be essential to ensure renewable infrastructure delivers climate benefits without creating additional ecological pressures.
As Maharashtra expands investment in sustainable mobility infrastructure, the proposed solar open access project represents an important test of how renewable energy can be integrated into large transport networks. If implemented efficiently, it could establish a replicable framework for powering future infrastructure with cleaner energy while supporting economic development and advancing the state’s transition towards low-carbon public assets.
