New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the signing of an MoU between India and the United States for International Development/India (USAID/India). The agreement aims to support Indian Railways in achieving Mission Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2030, reducing dependence on imported fuels such as Diesel and Coal.
The MoU serves as a platform for interaction between Indian Railways and USAID/India to share the latest developments and knowledge in the railway sector. It facilitates utility modernisation, advanced energy solutions, regional energy integration, private sector engagement, and training programs focusing on technology areas such as renewable Energy and energy efficiency, fostering the development of a local ecosystem and supporting local product development.
The signed MoU outlines key areas of cooperation, including long-term energy planning, development of an Energy Efficiency Policy and Action Plan for railway buildings, clean energy procurement planning, addressing regulatory barriers, bid design and management for large-scale renewable procurement, support for e-mobility, and collaborative hosting of events and conferences.
Both parties may request revisions to the MoU in writing, subject to approval. The agreement is effective as of the signing date and is expected to continue for five years or until the effective end of the South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), whichever is shorter.
Previously, USAID/India collaborated with Indian Railways on the deployment of rooftop solar across railway platforms.
