Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor: Ghaziabad’s Duhai becomes second Indian city to get solar panels between tracks

Solar on train tracks, Net zero emissions

NCRTC has implemented an innovative ‘Solar on Track’ project at the Namo Bharat Depot in Duhai located in Ghaziabad. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative in any RRTS or Metro system in India.

Solar on Namo Bharat train tracks

NCRTC has installed this pilot project on the Pit Wheel Track at the Namo Bharat Depot in Duhai, featuring 28 solar panels of 550 Wp each, with a total plant capacity of 15.4 kWp spread over 70 metres of track length. This is expected to generate about 17,500 kWh of energy annually, resulting in an estimated reduction of 16 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year.

Delhi Meerut RRTS solar panels

“The ‘Solar on Track’ system demonstrates NCRTC’s continuous commitment to adopting innovative and sustainable practices in its operations. The installation not only utilises otherwise unused track space but also contributes to NCRTC’s larger goal of achieving net-zero energy consumption across its facilities,” NCRTC said in a statement.

Renewable energy, Namo Bharat train

NCRTC aims to meet around 70 per cent of its total energy needs from renewable sources. Under its solar policy, it is targeting to generate 15 MW peak in-house solar power on rooftops of stations, depots, and other buildings, with 5.5 MW already operational.

Under its solar policy, NCRTC aims to enhance the share of renewable energy across its system by generating solar power. The Namo Bharat trains are also equipped with advanced regenerative braking systems that convert the train’s kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking.