Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) has commissioned India’s first removable solar panel system installed between railway tracks. The 70-metre-long pilot installation comprises 28 solar panels with a combined capacity of 15 kWp.

The project aims to promote sustainable energy adoption within railway operations and could significantly contribute to Indian Railways’ target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 if deployed at scale.

The system has been designed for flexibility, with solar modules mounted on concrete sleepers using epoxy resin and supported with rubber padding to absorb shocks and vibrations from train movement. Its removable nature enables easy maintenance and ensures train services remain uninterrupted.

According to BLW, the concept has the potential to generate nearly 321,000 kWh of electricity per kilometre annually if implemented widely.

News source: Metro Rail News