Pune Railway Division Saves Costs and Reduces CO2 Emissions with Solar Energy

Pune Railway Division Leads The Way In Sustainable Development By Harnessing Solar Energy At 42 Locations

Under the leadership of Divisional Railway Manager Rajesh Verma and Senior Divisional Electrical Engineer (General) Parag Aknurwar, the Pune Division of Central Railway has made significant strides in sustainable development by integrating solar energy into its operations.

• This initiative is a reflection of the division’s strong commitment to environmental conservation and energy efficiency.

Beginning of the Solar Initiative

The solar energy initiative began in 2016 with the installation of a 160 KWp Solar PV Roof Top Power Plant at the PRS building in Pune.

• Since then, Pune Division has expanded its solar installations, achieving a total capacity of 2.74 MW across 42 locations, including key stations like Pune, Daund, Satara, Kolhapur, Shivajinagar, Khadki, and Pimpri.

Additional installations were made at critical sites such as the Diesel Loco Shed, DRM Office Building, and other railway establishments.

Solar Street Lights and Remote Locations

In addition to the rooftop solar plants, Solar Standalone Street Lights have been strategically deployed at remote locations.

• This effort further enhances the utilization of renewable energy sources, expanding the division’s sustainable energy footprint.

The initiative has led to impressive outcomes in terms of energy generation and cost savings:

• 1.80 lakh units/month of solar energy generated.
• Savings of ₹12.0 lakh/month in energy costs.
• The project has helped reduce 3,250 tons/year of CO2 emissions.
• This environmental impact is equivalent to planting 1.08 lakh teak trees.

These achievements underscore the Pune Division’s dedication to sustainability and its significant contribution towards a cleaner and greener environment.