New Delhi: To achieve the objective of achieving zero energy in railway infrastructure of environmental protection and sustainable energy use, Railways is going to install removable solar panels between the rail tracks.
According to the project report obtained by ETV Bharat, the pilot project has used an indigenously designed installation process to lay solar panels between the rail tracks without disrupting rail traffic in the East Central region.
These panels are not only durable and efficient, but can also be removed, facilitating maintenance and seasonal adaptation.
“Indian Railways is increasingly incorporating solar power to move towards a more sustainable and green transport system, in sync with the government’s focus on renewable energy and climate change mitigation,” a senior railway official said. Various ways are being considered at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), including installing solar power on the rooftops of the workshop and all office buildings, he said.
BLW has now started testing installation of solar panels above the railway track in the workshop, a senior railway official said. BLW has commissioned India’s first removable solar panel system installed between active railway tracks.
The official said that Varanasi’s Banaras Locomotive Works has installed India’s first 70-metre-long removable solar panel system between tracks on the railway track. It has 28 solar panels, with a peak capacity of 15 kW. The challenges have been duly considered before planning the installation.
Vibration: The passage of a train creates vibrations which may damage the solar panels and may reduce their functionality and life span. As per the project report, rubber mounting pads have been used to avoid vibrations from the railway track.
Fixation with concrete sleepers: The solar panels have been installed using epoxy adhesive (chemical reaction takes place and an extremely strong rigid bond is formed) which has strong metal concrete bonding feature. No clamps have been used to fix the panels to the track.
Dust and debris: Frequent cleaning of the panel may be required to maintain better functioning.
Security: Theft and vandalism of solar power plants is a concern, especially in areas with limited security. CCTV cameras have been installed to protect the panels.
Easy access for maintenance: Moving rail tracks require frequent maintenance within a stipulated time frame. The main challenge of installing solar panels on the track is considering the above constraints. 4 SS Allen bolts have been used for easy removal from the track.
Renewable energy potential: As per Rajya Sabha data According to the ministry, the installed renewable energy capacity till February this year is solar (rooftop + ground) 553 MW, wind 103 MW, and round the clock + hybrid 100 MW.
Solar energy security: By 2030, Indian Railways’ traction energy requirement is estimated to reach 10,000 MW. The Railway Minister had informed earlier this year that till date, 4,260 MW of installed solar energy capacity and 3,427 MW of installed wind energy capacity have been acquired to meet its energy requirements.
