Metro Railway has taken a significant step towards sustainability by inaugurating a 168 KWp grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic power plant at Tollygunge on 25.11.2024. The plant was inaugurated by Shri Amitava Mukherjee, Sr. Tech/AV/Kalighat, in the presence of Shri P. Uday Kumar Reddy, General Manager, and other senior officers. This facility, spread across the roofs of 14 buildings in A & C blocks of Metro staff quarters, is the first of its kind in a residential quarters area.

The solar power generated will supply electricity to the quarter complex and be fed into the grid connected to the substation, which will support the third line of Metro tracks for running commercial services. This initiative reflects Metro Railway's commitment to clean and green energy while reducing costs for the government.

Indian Railways aims to become a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030. In line with this, Metro Railway, Kolkata, plans to install 27,000 KWp (27 MWp) solar power plants across Metro premises, including station rooftops, railway quarters, hospitals, office buildings, depots, sheds, and vacant land. A 1 MWp solar panel generates approximately 3,500 units of electricity daily. Thus, 27 MWp solar panels will produce 3.45 crore units annually without releasing carbon dioxide.

If this power were generated in a thermal power plant, it would emit 13,500 metric tons (135 lakh kg) of CO₂ into the atmosphere annually. By adopting solar energy, Metro Railway significantly contributes to reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment.

Shri P. Uday Kumar Reddy expressed hope that this initiative will not only reduce environmental pollution but also inspire similar steps to ensure a clean and green future for Mother Earth. This effort underscores Metro Railway’s dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly development.

Source/RSB