New Delhi: Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) is working with the Ministry of Railways to develop a 300 MW hybrid renewable energy project, combining solar, wind, and storage systems. The aim is to support Indian Railways’ push for cleaner energy and meet its green power procurement targets.
The project is estimated to cost over Rs 1,500 crore, based on current benchmarks for solar, wind, and storage infrastructure. It will supply power directly to railway feeders, helping manage peak-time electricity demand.
Focus on Hybrid Power and Storage
According to RVNL, the energy storage component will play a key role in ensuring a steady power supply during high-demand hours. The company is currently in discussions with technology firms to support the storage and renewable setup.
Potential project sites have been identified in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Karnataka. While RVNL will handle infrastructure and transmission development, partner firms will bring in technical capabilities such as solar modules and advanced energy systems.
The initiative comes in response to Indian Railways’ commitment to source 15–20% of its energy needs from renewable sources.
Rail Connectivity Projects in Coal Regions
Alongside its clean energy efforts, RVNL is also pushing forward with rail connectivity projects to improve mineral transportation. One major line connects Sonnagar in Bihar to Patratu in Jharkhand. Out of the total 290 km stretch, 170 km is already operational. The remaining segment had earlier faced delays due to wildlife concerns near the Patratu tiger reserve. A new route, cleared by the Forest Department, is now being developed.
Another line, covering 97 km from Angul to Sukhinda in Odisha, is nearing completion. Built under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model, the route is designed for the efficient evacuation of coal and iron ore from mining areas.
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