Uttar Pradesh

• 06 Feb 2025

Bundelkhand: Center of Solar Energy

Why in News? 

Uttar Pradesh is progressing rapidly in the field of solar energy and Bundelkhand has emerged as a major centre of energy , playing an important role in this progress . 

Key Points 

• Development of Solar Energy in UP:  
  • The government has implemented a comprehensive solar energy policy , under which various incentives are being provided to solar energy projects.  
  • In 2024, 17 solar power plants with a capacity of about 1100 MW have become operational in the state..  
  • These solar plants have created direct employment opportunities, underlining the significant economic impact of renewable energy expansion in Uttar Pradesh.  
• Role of Bundelkhand:  
  • Bundelkhand has emerged as a major region in the field of renewable energy and is promoting regional development and employment. 
  • The abundant sunlight and climatic conditions in this region make it ideal for solar energy production.  
• Major projects:  
  • Solar power units of 4 thousand MW have been installed in Bundelkhand. Out of the 10 new solar plants installed in this region , 995 MW have started operating. 
    • Jhansi Solar Power Project 600 MW project by TUSCO Limited commissioned in January 2025. 
    • Along with this, a 100 MW solar plant by Fourth Partner Energy started in  Babina, Jhansi with an investment of Rs1200 crore in mid-2024. 
    • Another significant development in Bundelkhand is the Sun Source Energy Solar Open Access Project, which contributes an additional 135 MW to the state's energy grid. 

Bundelkhand 

• Bundelkhand is a geographical and cultural region located on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. 
• It is a semi-arid region comprising seven districts of Uttar Pradesh (Jhansi, Jalaun, Lalitpur, Mahoba, Hamirpur, Banda and Chitrakoot).  
• It is also a mountain range. Jhansi is  the largest city of Bundelkhand . 
• Bundelkhand was earlier known as Jejabhukti or Jejakabhukti , but from the time of the Bundelas in the 14th century it came to be known as Bundelkhand.