Kolkata Metro Gets India’s 1st Battery Backup System To Tackle Power Outages & Boost Safety

Keeping frequent power outages and the resulting service disruptions in mind, Kolkata Metro has commissioned a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) along the underground stretch of its Blue Line. With this move, it has become the first metro system in India to deploy such a system. Scroll on to know more.

India’s First Battery Energy Storage System In Kolkata Metro

Kolkata Metro has introduced India’s first battery backup system that will not only improve energy efficiency but also enhance passenger safety during power failures. According to NDTV, the system was commissioned in the presence of General Manager S S Mishra and other senior officials.

The BESS includes inverters and Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) batteries, allowing it to supply stored power during outages or grid failures. The 4 MW system has been developed under the National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage, which was approved by the Union Cabinet in 2021. It is powered by a 6.4 MWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery that serves as its main energy storage unit.

According to NDTV, the stored power can move stranded trains at speeds of up to 55 km/h from mid-tunnel to the next station in case of a grid failure. It can also supply electricity to tunnel ventilation and environmental control systems at underground stations. The system uses green batteries, has a lifespan of around 14 years, and features a compact design. It is also expected to lower the carbon footprint by offering better energy efficiency compared to conventional generators.

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Why Was This Important For The City Metro?

If you’ve ever travelled on Kolkata Metro’s Blue Line (North–South corridor), you’d know that power failures and trains getting stranded in tunnels have not been uncommon. In several past incidents, passengers were forced to walk along the tracks to reach the nearest station during outages.

With the new battery backup system in place, coaches of Kolkata Metro will be able to continue operations even during power failures, ensuring smoother services and improved passenger safety.

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We can’t wait to see how this new system will help improve the commute of passengers on this metro line.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons