Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has reissued tenders for the development of a solar power project along the Samruddhi Mahamarg, following an earlier lacklustre response. The move comes as restrictions linked to the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Legislative Council elections in four constituencies have now been lifted, enabling the corporation to proceed with its green energy plans.
An official from MSRDC highlighted the necessity of reissuing the tender, noting that the previous attempt did not garner adequate interest. The corporation, through its special purpose vehicle Mahasamruddhi Renewable Energy Limited, is committed to enhancing green energy utilisation by establishing solar power plants at various interchanges along the Samruddhi Mahamarg. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s broader objective of achieving net zero emissions by 2070. The MSRDC is set to develop wind, solar, and hybrid energy projects along the highway, which links Nagpur to Mumbai. The corporation aims to engage firms for comprehensive feasibility studies, detailed project report (DPR) preparation, bid process management, carbon credit trading, and project management consultancy services. Additionally, MSRDC seeks a consultant to conduct a peer review of the existing DPR, taking into account advancements in technology and shifts in commercial and policy frameworks at both national and state levels. This consultant will also facilitate the bid process for appointing contractors and oversee the execution of carbon credit trading and project management.
In 2021, a DPR for the solar power project was conducted at the Samruddhi Mahamarg’s interchanges. The project aims to generate between 150 and 200 megawatts of solar power, which will not only illuminate the Samruddhi Mahamarg but also other highways being developed by MSRDC. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the monthly power bills, currently ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for each operational interchange on the Samruddhi Mahamarg, and to provide savings at tunnels on the upcoming Missing Link Expressway. Moreover, MSRDC plans to assess its captive power consumption to ensure that the solar power generated is optimally utilised at its various offices across Mumbai, including those at Nepean Sea Road and Bandra Reclamation, as well as in Pune, Nashik, and Aurangabad. This solar initiative is not only a step towards cost-efficiency but also a significant move in reducing the carbon footprint and transforming the Samruddhi Mahamarg into a green corridor. By embracing renewable energy, MSRDC aims to set a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure development in Maharashtra.
