Uttar Pradesh is transforming its youth into a skilled workforce for the renewable energy sector through targeted training programs. The state’s initiatives, led by UPNEDA and supported by national schemes like Suryamitra, aim to meet the rising demand for solar and green energy jobs. With thousands trained and employed, UP is fostering sustainable growth and reducing youth migration.
Uttar Pradesh Empowers Youth with Green Energy Skills
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, is harnessing its youth potential to drive the renewable energy revolution. The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) has been at the forefront, implementing training programs to equip young individuals with skills for the burgeoning solar and renewable energy sector. These initiatives align with the state’s ambitious target of achieving 22,000 MW of solar power by 2026-27, as outlined in the Uttar Pradesh Solar Energy Policy 2022.
The Suryamitra Skill Development Programme, a flagship initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has gained significant traction in UP. Coordinated by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), the program trains youth as solar PV technicians, focusing on rural and unemployed candidates. Since its inception in 2015, over 51,529 Suryamitras have been trained nationwide by December 2022, with UP emerging as a key hub due to its solar potential. The 600-hour residential course covers classroom training, lab practicals, and on-the-job exposure, ensuring participants are job-ready.
In July 2025, UP became the national leader in daily solar installations under the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with 891 units installed per day, surpassing Gujarat and Maharashtra. This achievement has spurred demand for skilled workers, with the state expanding its vendor network from 86 to over 3,000. UPNEDA’s efforts include training and empowering Suryamitras, with top performers felicitated on Akshay Urja Diwas for their contributions to entrepreneurship and customer satisfaction.
The state’s Rozgar Mission, formalized in 2025, complements these efforts by integrating skill training with employment opportunities. Over 13.64 lakh youth have secured jobs through the mission, with a focus on renewable energy sectors like solar and green hydrogen. District-level committees ensure grassroots reach, while partnerships with industries provide practical training and placements. The mission also emphasizes female participation, particularly in healthcare and IT-enabled services, which intersect with renewable energy roles.
UPNEDA’s training center in Lucknow, established in 1991-92, plays a pivotal role. Spanning 12 acres, it offers facilities like an auditorium, conference halls, and a hostel, hosting programs on alternative energy for diverse groups. The center collaborates with governmental and non-governmental organizations to broaden its impact, charging nominal rates for external training programs. This infrastructure supports UP’s goal of developing a skilled workforce for solar projects, including rooftop installations and utility-scale plants.
The state’s renewable energy push is also an economic catalyst. With 9.65 lakh electric vehicles registered by 2024 and 450+ active charging stations, UP is the third-largest automobile consumer in India. The growth of solar projects, particularly in the Bundelkhand region’s Green Energy Corridor, has created jobs in installation, maintenance, and storage systems. The Solar Energy Policy 2022 offers incentives like 100% stamp duty exemptions for solar projects, attracting private investment and generating employment.
Skill development extends beyond solar. The state’s focus on green hydrogen and bioenergy, backed by policies like the Uttar Pradesh Green Hydrogen Policy 2024, is creating new opportunities. Training programs are tailored to meet global demand, with UP positioning itself as a manpower supplier in healthcare and construction, sectors increasingly reliant on renewable energy solutions.
Challenges remain, including the need for more training centers and advanced courses in emerging fields like energy storage and smart grids. However, UP’s proactive approach—combining policy support, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships—has set a model for other states. By upskilling its youth, UP is not only reducing migration but also building a sustainable future powered by renewable energy.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news, reports, and official sources, including UPNEDA, MNRE, and media outlets like Drishti IAS and Organiser. Information is accurate as of September 2, 2025, and subject to change based on new developments. Always verify details with official government portals for the latest updates.