Andhra Pradesh Advances Urban Lighting with IoT Integration in Phase Two
In a significant move towards sustainable urban development, Andhra Pradesh has officially launched the second phase of its Smart LED Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP). This phase introduces an advanced IoT-based integrated management system across all urban local bodies in the state, marking a leap forward in smart city infrastructure.
Comprehensive Coverage and Real-Time Monitoring
The new system will cover over 7.5 lakh street lights, enabling features such as real-time monitoring, automated operations, centralized control, and enhanced fault detection. This initiative is implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), with APSEEDCO serving as the consultant. The primary goals are to reduce power consumption significantly and improve operational efficiency across urban areas.
Building on Phase One Success
Phase one of the programme saw the installation of 29.47 lakh LED street lights across both rural and urban regions of Andhra Pradesh. This initial phase resulted in annual savings of 390 million kWh of electricity, cost reductions of ₹234 crore, and a decrease in carbon emissions by 0.36 million tonnes. These achievements set a strong foundation for the current expansion, demonstrating the state's commitment to energy conservation and environmental sustainability.
National Context and State Commitment
Other states, including Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, have adopted similar LED street lighting programmes, highlighting a nationwide shift towards energy-efficient solutions. EESL has accepted Andhra Pradesh's proposal for phase two and committed to strict timelines for implementation. Key officials, such as Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar and CDMA P Sampath Kumar, have emphasized adherence to these schedules, while EESL CEO Akhilesh Kumar Dixit confirmed that tendering processes will be completed by May 2026.
Aiming for Complete LED Coverage
The state aims to achieve 100% LED street lighting coverage, including remote urban areas, through this phase. The IoT systems will ensure automation, continuous monitoring, and overall efficiency in street lighting operations. Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar reiterated that the state is working diligently towards this goal, with the system designed to enhance monitoring capabilities and streamline automation processes.
Historical Background and Implementation Model
Launched in January 2015 alongside the UJALA scheme, the Street Lighting National Programme was introduced under the 'Prakash Path' initiative to replace conventional street lights with energy-efficient LED systems. Over the past decade, it has been implemented across several states and urban local bodies, focusing on reducing electricity consumption, lowering carbon emissions, and improving street lighting infrastructure through large-scale LED deployment. EESL, as the implementing agency, has collaborated closely with the Andhra Pradesh government, urban local bodies, and other local entities, ensuring seamless execution through its innovative performance contracting model.
This phase two launch underscores Andhra Pradesh's proactive approach to leveraging technology for urban management, setting a benchmark for other regions in India to follow in the pursuit of smarter and greener cities.
