Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) has launched India’s first removable solar panel installation directly between railway tracks, marking a significant step in sustainable energy integration within the country’s rail network. The 70-metre-long pilot features 28 solar modules with a combined generation capacity of 15 kWp, designed to produce clean electricity while remaining unobtrusive to train operations.
Officials highlighted that this initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. By enabling electricity generation along track corridors, the project could provide a scalable solution for renewable energy adoption across the nation’s extensive railway network. Experts estimate that, if implemented widely, such systems could yield nearly 321,000 kWh of electricity per kilometre annually, significantly contributing to green energy targets. The system is engineered for resilience and maintainability. Solar panels are mounted on concrete sleepers using high-strength epoxy resin, while rubber padding absorbs vibrations and shocks from passing trains. Its removable design allows maintenance without interrupting train services, demonstrating an innovative balance between sustainability and operational efficiency. Railway energy planners note that this feature is crucial for large-scale deployment on active routes.
“This project showcases the potential of integrating renewable energy into existing infrastructure,” said an official from BLW’s sustainable energy division. “It offers a dual benefit: supporting India’s net-zero goals and reducing dependency on conventional electricity sources.” Energy analysts also emphasise the wider environmental implications. Installing solar arrays along railway corridors could reduce urban air pollution by offsetting fossil fuel consumption and promoting cleaner transport infrastructure. Additionally, the flexible deployment approach may allow integration at stations, depots, and maintenance yards, creating a comprehensive renewable energy ecosystem within the railway sector.
The pilot at Varanasi also serves as a model for other public infrastructure projects seeking eco-friendly energy solutions. By leveraging otherwise unused space, railway operators can maximise land utility while contributing to national carbon reduction targets. Experts suggest that similar projects along highways, metro tracks, and industrial zones could replicate these benefits, highlighting a new frontier for distributed renewable energy. BLW officials confirmed that detailed monitoring and data collection will inform future deployments, including potential expansions to higher-capacity panels and longer track stretches. The initiative underscores India’s commitment to merging technology, energy efficiency, and operational practicality, positioning railways as a cornerstone of the country’s green transition.
With increasing focus on sustainable infrastructure, this pilot project sets a benchmark for combining mobility with renewable energy, making railways an active participant in shaping India’s net-zero future.
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