Surat has taken a decisive step towards sustainable mobility with the launch of India’s first solar-powered smart bus stand at the Althan bus depot. Designed to generate renewable energy and offer uninterrupted charging for electric buses, the facility positions the city as a frontrunner in climate-conscious urban transport.
The smart stand integrates a 100 kW rooftop solar plant with a 224 kWh battery storage system that reuses discarded electric vehicle batteries. This closed-loop innovation enables the depot to operate round the clock while easing the burden on the city’s electricity grid. Officials note that the facility is capable of producing 100,000 units of clean power annually, leading to savings of nearly ₹6.65 lakh every year in energy costs.
Also Watch: An Exclusive Interview with Sanjeev Jaiswal (IAS), CEO MHADA
Beyond its green credentials, the depot enhances commuter experience with Wi-Fi, LED lighting, ventilation, and advanced surveillance systems. Experts underline that by embedding public amenities into renewable energy hubs, cities can promote inclusivity and safety while meeting environmental goals.
The adoption of second-life EV batteries reflects an important shift in how Indian cities view resource efficiency. Instead of discarding spent batteries, they are being repurposed into energy storage systems, reducing electronic waste while creating resilience in power supply. According to officials, this approach directly supports the principles of a circular economy, where technology serves both mobility and sustainability. Environmental analysts point out that the project’s annual power generation could offset a significant portion of emissions that would otherwise arise from fossil fuel-based electricity. With urban transport contributing heavily to greenhouse gas emissions, Surat’s model provides a blueprint for other metropolitan regions battling air pollution and rising fuel demand.
The initiative also reflects growing collaboration between municipal authorities and international technical experts. Such partnerships are enabling Indian cities to accelerate climate-responsive projects that balance innovation, affordability, and long-term ecological benefits. Authorities confirmed that the smart bus stand is only the first step, with plans underway to expand solar-charging depots as the city’s electric bus fleet grows. As India continues to urbanise, cities face the dual challenge of mobility expansion and environmental protection. Surat’s solar-powered bus stand demonstrates how technology, planning, and governance can converge to achieve both objectives. It symbolises the possibility of transforming public transport hubs into clean energy ecosystems, setting a precedent for climate-forward city planning across the country.
Also Read: Bhopal sets vision for metro rail and civic growth
Surat unveils India’s first solar-powered smart bus stand
