NHAI has introduced a pilot windmill project on the Kundapur-Surathkal stretch (NH-66) in Karnataka, which is a major step in clean-energy development. This project covers India’s first rooftop 10 kW vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT), which is considered as the first step in the country’s roadmap to renewable energy integration for highway infrastructure.
The wind turbine stands on top of the toll plaza building. Unlike earlier horizontal power turbines, the vertical axis design can harvest wind from any direction, and is even more beneficial in coastal areas including Udupi district where wind patterns are typically turbulent. The turbine will produce sufficient amounts of electricity for toll projects, lighting systems, and CCTV to reduce reliance on grid power.
This hybrid project is built from a technology from Windstream Energy Technologies, its brand called SolarMill. It utilises wind and solar power to ensure full energy production. It combines wind energy (as in a 10 kW turbine) with solar panels, producing clean energy during both daylight and nighttime hours. It is estimated that this system will save about ₹18 lakh per annum on electricity expenses.
Benefit
The construction will benefit India’s aspiration to have green highways. It reduces reliance on conventional electricity and reduces operational costs.
- Environmental effects: Due to the use of renewable energy for all the toll plaza reduces carbon emissions.
- Scalable: The toll plaza can scale: If it goes so far as to be implemented there will be replication, replications of such systems can be scaled to toll plazas nationwide.
Public and Industry Reaction
Environmentalists and industry experts have praised the initiative as a progressive approach. The NHAI’s experiment with renewable energy in infrastructure projects was praised by many. Udupi district’s locals also regard it as a symbol of progress, illustrating how highways in that part of the Udupi district can do good. But critics say pilot programs still have to be closely watched for the long-term efficiencies and maintenance.
The first vertical axis wind turbine was installed on the top of the Hejamady Toll Plaza in India, a proud milestone on India's march for renewable energy. NHAI offers a dual solution to the functional utility of a new infrastructure, integrating its wind and solar power. If successful, it could lead to greener highways across India making it a blueprint for future initiatives to integrate clean energy into the roadscape.
