A fully solar-powered smart electric bus depot has been introduced by Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) at Althan, Gujarat. This is possible because of support from Germany’s GIZ. The bus depot, built at a cost of ₹1.60 crore, is an innovative project that marks a major step toward sustainable urban transport.
This facility is powered by a 100 kW rooftop solar power plant and a 224 kWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The thing that makes this facility special is its use of second-hand batteries taken from old electric vehicles.
These reused batteries show how we can give old materials a new purpose. These batteries store solar power during the day, so the depot can charge electric buses anytime, even at night. This helps reduce the load on the city’s main electricity supply.
The solar system is expected to generate around 100,000 kWh of electricity each year. This will help save around ₹6.65 lakh in energy costs.
The depot is also built to keep passengers comfortable. It has free Wi‑Fi, LED lights, ceiling fans, CCTV cameras, and phone charging points, making it a modern and convenient place for commuters.
According to SMC officials, the project not only promotes clean energy but also sets a standard for battery reuse and energy efficiency.
It supports Surat’s goals of becoming a net-zero energy city and improves the city’s growing electric bus infrastructure.
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