The Uttar Pradesh Solar Energy Policy 2022 is a flagship renewable-energy initiative that combines ambitious capacity targets, investor-friendly incentives, solar city development, agricultural solarization, and green transmission infrastructure. With a target of 22 GW of solar capacity by 2026-27, it is expected to position Uttar Pradesh among India’s leading solar-power-producing states.The inherent idea behind formulating this policy is to accelerate solar power generation, attract private investment, enhance energy security, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The policy is valid for five years and is being implemented by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA).The policy seeks to provide reliable and affordable clean energy, achieve an optimal mix of conventional and renewable power, promote private investment in solar generation and energy storage and generate employment and develop skilled manpower in the renewable energy sector.
Major Target
The policy aims to achieve 22,000 MW (22 GW) of solar power capacity by 2026-27, one of the most ambitious renewable energy targets among Indian states.
Capacity-wise Targets
| Segment | Target Capacity |
|---|---|
| Utility-scale Solar Parks/Projects | 14,000 MW |
| Residential Rooftop Solar | 4,500 MW |
| Non-Residential Rooftop Solar | 1,500 MW |
| PM-KUSUM & Distributed Solar Projects | 2,000 MW |
| Skill Development (Surya Mitras) | 30,000 Youth |
Key Features
1. Development of Solar Parks
- Large-scale solar parks will be developed across the state.
- Special emphasis has been placed on the Bundelkhand region due to its high solar potential.
2. Green Energy Corridor
- A dedicated Green Energy Corridor is being established in Bundelkhand.
- Initially designed to evacuate around 4,000 MW of solar power, with scope for future expansion.
3. Solar Cities
- Ayodhya is being developed as a Model Solar City.
- Subsequently, 16 municipal corporations and Noida are to be developed as Solar Cities.
4. Rooftop Solar Promotion
- Target of covering approximately 13.5 lakh households with rooftop solar systems.
- Government buildings, schools, colleges, universities, and public sector institutions are to be solarized in a phased manner.
5. Agricultural Solarization
- Solarization of agricultural feeders.
- Promotion of solar-powered private tube wells under PM-KUSUM.
Incentives for Investors
Fiscal Incentives
- 100 per cent exemption on stamp duty for land used for solar projects and solar parks.
- 100 per cent exemption from electricity duty for 10 years.
- State subsidy of Rs 2.5 crore per MW for utility-scale solar projects with four-hour battery storage systems.
- Energy banking facility up to 100 per cent for eligible projects.
Ease of Doing Business
- Promotion of captive and third-party sale solar projects.
- Long-term lease of government land for solar projects.
- Simplified approvals through the nodal agency UPNEDA.
Employment GenerationThe policy targets training 30,000 “Surya Mitras” over five years, creating a skilled workforce for installation, operation, and maintenance of solar projects.Expected Impact on Uttar Pradesh
- Investment worth thousands of crores in the renewable energy sector.
- Creation of large-scale employment opportunities.
- Reduction in carbon emissions and dependence on coal-based power.
- Enhanced energy security and grid stability.
- Transformation of Bundelkhand into a major renewable-energy hub.
- Support to Uttar Pradesh’s vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy through sustainable industrial growth.
