Lucknow: In a major step towards promoting clean energy and sustainable development, Auraiya district in Uttar Pradesh has set a new benchmark by making solar rooftop systems and rainwater harvesting mandatory for all new residential buildings. The decision marks a significant move in strengthening energy conservation, water management and environmental protection, aligning with the Yogi Adityanath government’s broader green energy vision.
Under this forward-looking initiative, approval of building maps for newly constructed houses in Auraiya will now be linked to the installation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. The objective is not only to reduce dependence on conventional electricity but also to ensure efficient use and conservation of water resources.
Expanding the Scope of Clean Energy
As per the proposal, urban local bodies including municipal councils, nagar panchayats and municipal corporations can implement the policy by passing resolutions in their respective board meetings. Once approved, compliance with solar rooftop and rainwater harvesting provisions will be mandatory during construction.
This move is expected to significantly expand the reach of green energy across both urban and rural areas, while simultaneously addressing water scarcity through systematic rainwater conservation.
A Model for Other Districts
The Auraiya initiative is being widely viewed as a replicable model for other districts in the state. The Uttar Pradesh government believes that districts should adopt similar policy measures based on local requirements to encourage the use of residential solar energy at the level of urban and rural local bodies.
Uttar Pradesh has already made rapid progress in the rooftop solar sector. At present, rooftop solar systems with a total installed capacity of 1,191.64 megawatts are operational across the state, generating nearly 50 lakh units of carbon-free electricity every day. This has led to a significant reduction in environmental impact and carbon emissions.
Economic, Environmental and Social Benefits
Through rooftop solar installations, citizens are saving an estimated ₹3.25 crore daily on electricity costs. The initiative has also strengthened the state’s economy by generating employment—around 50,000 people have gained direct jobs, while lakhs have benefited indirectly.
In addition, the rooftop solar model has helped conserve nearly 4,500 acres of land, which can now be utilised for other development projects. The Auraiya model is increasingly being seen as a powerful tool for ensuring energy security, environmental protection and economic empowerment.
The Yogi government maintains that if implemented across other districts, Auraiya’s green energy framework could help Uttar Pradesh emerge as one of India’s leading states in clean energy adoption, taking the state a decisive step towards a greener and more sustainable future.
