When it comes to driving sustainable innovation, India has always been racing ahead full throttle. Taking another big step in that direction, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has launched an all-new initiative called ‘Solar on Track’ at the Namo Bharat Depot in Duhai, Uttar Pradesh. For the first time in India, solar panels have been installed directly on a rapid rail or metro track — a move that’s setting new standards for green transport. Curious to know how it works? Let’s dive in!
Solar On Track Project In Duhai
NCRTC has introduced ‘Solar on Track’ project in Uttar Pradesh to promote sustainable travel. This project is being tested on a small scale for the first time at the Duhai Depot before expanding. According to The New Indian Express, it features 28 solar panels, each with a capacity of 550 Wp, adding up to a total capacity of 15.4 kWp. These panels have been installed along a 70-metre stretch of metro track. The idea is to make smart use of track space that would otherwise remain unused. With this setup, the system is expected to generate around 17,500 units (kWh) of clean electricity every year. This will also help cut down about 16 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually, reducing the system’s overall carbon footprint.
NCRTC says the initiative highlights its commitment to sustainable operations and energy-efficient solutions. By directly using solar power from the track area, the organisation aims to move closer to achieving net-zero energy consumption across all its facilities.
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More About This Project
This pilot project is part of NCRTC’s larger plan to depend more on renewable energy. Under its solar policy, NCRTC aims to meet around 70% of its total energy needs from clean sources. It has set a target to generate 15 MW of solar power through installations on the rooftops of depots, stations, and other buildings along the corridor.
So far, about 5.5 MW of solar power is already operational and supports various functions of the Namo Bharat corridor. Officials say that the ‘Solar on Track’ initiative will further expand this effort by adding renewable energy production directly within the rail infrastructure itself. One of the best parts is that this project also supports the National Solar Mission.
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Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Indianinfoguide