ECoR to install rooftop solar power plants across network, boosting green energy

Bhubaneswar, Aug 7: East Coast Railway (ECoR) is set to enhance its green energy initiatives by installing extensive Rooftop Solar Power Plants across its network. In alignment with Indian Railways' sustainability goals, ECoR plans to deploy solar power solutions at various station and service buildings, residential structures, and level crossing gates throughout its jurisdiction.

The ambitious project will see the installation of solar power plants with a total capacity of 21,826 KWp. This initiative is expected to generate savings of approximately ₹14 crores on energy bills and ₹91.41 lakh from carbon credits. The solar installations will cover 149 station buildings, 248 service buildings, 6,924 residential buildings, and 366 level crossing gates.

To facilitate this, tenders worth ₹83.79 crores have been issued for installing solar power systems across several railway sections, including:

Brahmapur-Palasa Railway Section: ₹9.13 crore

Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Paradeep-Bhadrak Railway Section: ₹8.86 crore

Angul Section: ₹9.48 crore

Headquarters area in Bhubaneswar: ₹9.10 crore

Khurda Road-Puri Section: ₹8.74 crore

Paradeep-Kendujhargarh Railway Section: ₹8.10 crore

Visakhapatnam area: ₹7.25 crore

Visakhapatnam Electric Loco Shed area: ₹7.10 crore

Duvvada-Palasa Main Line/Naupada-Gunupur/Vizianagaram-Rayagada area: ₹8.78 crore

Kottavalasa-Kirandul Rail Line Section: ₹7.53 crore

Major facilities such as the Headquarters Building and Rail Sadan at Chandrasekharpur will benefit from a combined 6,790 KWp of rooftop solar power. Additionally, level crossing gates throughout the ECoR network are being equipped with solar and renewable energy systems.

ECoR’s commitment to solar energy is aimed at fulfilling its power needs sustainably while reducing operational costs and environmental impact. This initiative not only supports the railway's day-to-day operations but also contributes to a greener future.