EESL, NHAI to Setup Solar Projects, EV Chargers, LED Lights at Toll Plazas

With an aim to further develop, maintain, and manage national highways, Power Ministry-backed Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up various clean energy and energy efficiency interventions at NHAI buildings and structures at Toll Plazas.

The two organisations have further agreed to enter into a special relationship for implementation of energy efficiency projects, renewable energy projects and e-mobility services as a part of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to reduce dependence on fossil fuel, reduce emissions and achieve sustainable development all across Toll Plazas and other NHAI establishments.

As per the agreement signed, NHAI will avail PMC services of EESL as on required basis. NHAI will also provide site related information to EESL, which is required for undertaking the jobs and will support it during the feasibility assessment, along with helping in providing all relevant data as and when required by EESL.

Commenting on the partnership, Saurabh Kumar, Executive Vice Chairperson, EESL group of Companies, said that, “energy demand is increasing rapidly, and India is powering ahead to a sustainability-driven future by adopting energy efficiency initiatives. Availability of adequate charging infrastructure is one of the key requirements for further accelerating EV adoption in India.”

“Setting up various charging stations at highways will boost the interest of public commuting from one city to another, enabling a smooth and sustainable transition to a future-oriented mobility solution. Additionally, the installation of LED lighting and solar power plants will help enable energy savings and reduce carbon emissions,” said Rajat Kumar Sud, Managing Director, EESL.

The establishment of energy efficiency measures at the NHAI buildings and toll plazas would also help meet the targets of increasing environment friendly clean initiatives. With the increasing penetration of EVs, the local emission of pollutants is also expected to drop, leading to cleaner air, which will provide several health benefits to the public.

Meanwhile, the MoU was signed in the presence of Rajeev Sharma, Chairman, EESL and RK Pandey, Member- Projects, NHAI along with senior officials from the two bodies.