The Central Railway has installed a 10 MWp floating solar plant at Igatpuri Lake located in the Western Ghats, marking a pioneering initiative by the Indian Railways, senior officials said. This project highlights their commitment to renewable energy, integrating solar and wind resources, enhancing passenger amenities, and advancing towards a sustainable future for the railways.
Additionally, officials highlighted that as part of its aim to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2030, the Central Railway has successfully commissioned 12.05 MWp of solar plants on rooftops of railway stations and buildings. Notably, 4 MWp of these solar plants were installed just last year.
“MWp stands for Megawatt Peak, which is a measure of the maximum potential output of power. This has resulted in a saving of Rs 4.62 crore in 2023-24 and a saving of carbon footprints of 6,594.81 MT. There are further plans to install an additional 7-MWp solar plant in the current year,” a senior Central Railway official said.
“Steps have also been taken to move towards renewable energy. At present, 56.4 MW of wind energy and 61 MW of solar energy are being tapped,” he added.
According to Central Railway, agreements have been signed to utilize 325 MW of solar and wind energy, ensuring continuous, round-the-clock supply.
Besides this, 180 MW of solar and 50 MW of wind power is also likely to flow in the current financial year, officials said.
Another senior railway official stated that “these initiatives are equivalent to saving 2.5 lakh trees, which means the benefits provided by these measures are equal to that of the benefits provided by 2.5 lakh trees.”
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