Nagpur Metro Activates India’s First Between-Track Solar Grid

Nagpur Metro solar panels have been installed between tracks at the Hingna depot by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. The project has been described as a first-of-its-kind initiative for an Indian metro rail system. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

50 kWp solar photovoltaic system between tracks

As reported by Energetica India, the installation uses a 50 kWp solar photovoltaic system. It has been placed along an almost 200-metre section between operational tracks.

Also, the project connects solar generation with otherwise unused rail infrastructure space. It is expected to produce about 70,000 units of electricity per year. The system is also expected to reduce carbon emissions by roughly 65 tonnes annually.

According to officials, the system has been designed for metro depot conditions. It must account for train-related vibrations, safety requirements, and maintenance access. In addition, the panels use monocrystalline half-cut technology. That technology is associated with higher efficiency and durability.

MahaMetro solar project under PPP model

The project has been implemented through a public-private partnership model. At the same time, the metro authority did not have to make upfront capital investment. Electricity generated by the system will be used within the metro system for captive consumption. It will not depend on net metering mechanisms.

MahaMetro said the pilot project shows how renewable energy can be integrated into existing urban transit infrastructure. Still, the stated focus is on locations where space is limited. If the installation performs successfully, similar systems could be considered for other depots, including Mihan. The project may also provide a model for metro networks elsewhere in India.

Separately, the initiative supports wider efforts to increase renewable energy use in public transport. It also supports efforts to lower operating costs and reduce environmental impact.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: