Indian Railways, the nation's largest consumer of electricity, is taking a bold step towards achieving its net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2030. The organization is exploring the use of nuclear power through captive units, in addition to its ongoing efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio.
Currently, the Railways spends close to ₹20,000 crore annually on electricity to power its trains and offices. To reduce this expenditure and its environmental footprint, it is actively seeking partnerships with entities such as the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL), Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), NTPC, and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The focus is on establishing captive power plants, including small nuclear reactors and renewable energy units.
Indian Railways has already made significant strides in electrifying its network and adopting renewable energy sources. As of FY24, nearly 96% of its broad-gauge network has been electrified, and 2,637 stations and service buildings have been equipped with solar rooftop plants, generating a total of 177 MW of power.
In 2023 alone, 147 MW of solar plants and 103 MW of wind power plants were commissioned, with an additional 2150 MW of renewable capacity tied up. However, to meet its ambitious target of net-zero emissions by 2030, the Railways estimates that it will require a renewable capacity of 30,000 MW by 2029-30.
This exploration of nuclear power is not the first for Indian Railways. In 2013, preliminary discussions were held with NPCIL for setting up a 400 MW nuclear power plant. However, the plans fell through in 2017 when the Railways declined a partnership offer from the Department of Atomic Energy.
With renewed determination and a growing urgency to address climate change, Indian Railways is once again exploring the potential of nuclear power to achieve its sustainability goals. By diversifying its energy sources and embracing innovative technologies, the Railways is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future for India's transportation sector.
