In a significant move towards embracing sustainable practices, Vinay Kumar Singh, the Managing Director of NCRTC, inaugurated cutting-edge Solar Power Plants at Sahibabad RRTS station and Duhai Depot RRTS station on Friday, December 22, 2023. The inauguration, attended by NCRTC Directors and senior officials, signifies another progressive step by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) in promoting environmental responsibility.
The Solar Power Plant at Sahibabad station boasts a total capacity of 729 kW, featuring 1620 high-efficiency solar panels. This plant is anticipated to generate around 10 lakh units of electricity annually, surpassing the station’s auxiliary load consumption of about 7.3 lakhs per annum. Consequently, Sahibabad Station attains the accolade of being a ‘Green Station’ with a Carbon Negative distinction. Additionally, the Duhai Depot Station is now equipped with a solar plant containing 320 solar panels and an installed capacity of 108 kW.
This initiative is a significant stride towards sustainability, and the combined impact of these solar power plants is expected to reduce approximately 1600 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually. The reduction is achieved by replacing conventional fossil fuel-based power sources with clean and green solar energy, aligning with NCRTC’s commitment to minimizing its carbon footprint while optimizing operational costs.
These solar endeavors are in line with NCRTC’s Solar Policy, adopted in March 2021, aiming to generate around 11 MW peak of in-house solar power across its stations, depots, and other facilities for traction and non-traction purposes over the next five years.
In its pursuit of a clean and green environment, NCRTC has also made strides towards achieving the highest rating of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification. Recently, NCRTC was honored with the prestigious ‘Project Award for IGBC,’ a Platinum Rating for the Ghaziabad Receiving Sub Station (RSS) and Sahibabad RRTS station. The implementation of green energy and minimum water consumption systems in the RRTS will enhance the overall commuter experience, encouraging greater use of public transport.
The installation of these Solar Power Plants reflects NCRTC’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and clean energy practices. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Solar Mission and reinforces NCRTC’s role in promoting clean, sustainable energy sources for the benefit of the region and the nation as a whole.