Solar On CST Railway Station

India has taken up a mammoth task to install a 100 GW of solar power to eradicate its power problems. In this regard various policies, subsidies and schemes have been enacted by the central government. The states are also doing their bit in promoting solar usage.  A large portion of the Indian population still lives in darkness. These villages have no grid connectivity as the transmission facilities are poor in the country. As such the concept of micro and mini grid is also gaining popularity.

The Indian transportation also has ambitious plans of using solar panels to satisfy their power needs. Over the next five years, the railway ministry has a target of installing 1,000 MW solar power plants. They are also encouraging rooftop solar in this regard. Many Indian airports and railway stations are trying to incorporate solar for their power requirements.

Also read Solar Power from MP to drive New Delhi Metro Trains

The latest to join the league is the railway building at CST station. Installation of solar panels on these buildings can save lakhs of rupees in electricity bills. A 100 kW solar power plant has been planned, which is estimated to cost around INR 80 lakhs. The buildings in the complex need around 640 units of electricity per day. The savings are estimated to be Rs 23 lakh per year, with per unit tariff at INR 12. With the solar prices falling, the cost of the above mentioned project is expected to be recovered in five years. However, there are some challenges in this path too.

“We will have to generate energy to the tune of 640 units per day. As of now, the per unit tariff is Rs 12. Once, we source power through solar panels, we will save money on power bills. The savings are estimated to be Rs 23 lakh per year,” he added.

Source: TOI

Solar power is all set to power the metro trains in New Delhi, India once again. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has already installed nine new solar power generation facilities, in the stations and the depot of the Badarpur – Faridabad Metro corridor. Solar power generated from Madhya Pradesh’s 750 MW Solar Power Plant in Rewa will be used to power these metro trains in Delhi. This plant is estimated to be the world’s largest by far.

India is a huge country with large power needs. I like the fact that the government of India is coming out with innovative ideas in all fields to promote solar. It will not only brighten many lives but will also reduce the pressure on public exchequer in different avenues.