The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is accelerating its push toward sustainability by integrating renewable energy solutions into its infrastructure. In a landmark move, Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated India’s first vertical bi-facial solar plant on Tuesday at Okhla Vihar Metro station. The innovative plant is designed to capture sunlight from both sides, maximizing energy efficiency while utilizing the metro viaduct structure, eliminating the need for additional land.
The 50 KW bi-facial solar installation marks a significant milestone in DMRC’s journey toward reducing carbon emissions. The minister also inaugurated a 1 MW rooftop solar power plant at the Khyber Pass metro depot, further strengthening DMRC’s renewable energy portfolio.
India has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, and initiatives like these are crucial in steering urban infrastructure toward sustainable practices. Speaking at the 5th International Conference on Green Metro Systems in New Delhi, Khattar highlighted the role of urban transit systems in environmental conservation. “Transitioning from thermal to renewable energy, utilizing solar rooftops, and implementing regenerative braking in metros are vital steps toward a greener future,” he stated.
DMRC has set an ambitious target of generating 60 MW of solar power upon completing its Phase-4 expansion. With the latest installations, its total on-site rooftop solar capacity now stands at 51 MW, spread across 93 stations and 15 depots. The vertical bi-facial solar plant serves as a pilot project, with plans for wider implementation if it is successful.
As a joint venture between the Government of India and the Delhi Government, DMRC continues to set benchmarks in sustainable urban transport, reaffirming its commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing connectivity for millions of commuters.
Source:
0 Comments