New Delhi: In a significant step towards sustainable urban transport, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has invited bids to select a ‘Solar Power Developer’ for establishing a grid-connected Captive Generating Plant along with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) anywhere in India. The aim is to supply 500 Million Units (MUs) of renewable energy annually to power Delhi Metro’s operations in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
Strengthening Clean Energy Commitment
This move is part of DMRC’s broader commitment to clean and green operations. Currently, DMRC meets a major portion of its power requirement through renewable energy—drawing approximately 350 MUs from the Rewa Solar Park and 40 MUs from rooftop solar installations across metro stations, depots, and residential colonies.
Presently, about 33% of DMRC’s total energy usage during operational hours and 65% during daytime operations comes from renewable sources. With this new initiative, the metro aims to increase its renewable energy share to over 60%, making it the first metro system in India to achieve this level of green energy penetration.
Long-Term Clean Energy Plan
The selected developer will be responsible for commissioning the plant within a stipulated 15-month completion period from the date of award. The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with DMRC will span 25 years, ensuring a long-term and stable source of clean energy for the metro’s operations, including the upcoming Phase-IV network expansion.
Contributing to National Climate Goals
This project aligns with the Government of India’s “Panchamrit” strategy, a five-fold climate action framework announced at COP26. By prioritizing renewable energy and investing in energy storage, DMRC is actively contributing to the national goals of reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of non-fossil fuel energy sources.
Representative Photos
- Rooftop Solar Installation on Metro Station
- Solar Plant at a Metro Stabling Yard
- REWA Solar Power Plant
About DMRC
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is a pioneer in adopting green initiatives among urban transport systems in India. Through strategic renewable energy procurement and sustainable practices, DMRC has consistently worked towards reducing its carbon footprint while offering efficient, modern, and eco-friendly public transportation to millions of commuters daily. With this new bid initiative, DMRC continues to set benchmarks in clean energy adoption and climate-conscious infrastructure development.
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