Bengaluru metro explores solar panel option for metro stations

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) is making a fresh attempt to use the potential of solar energy at its properties by joining hands with private firms. The corporation had declared related plans in Baiyappanahalli and Peenya depots but the project did not take off. A senior BMRCL official confirmed that all stations aimed under Namma Metro’s Phase II, Phase II-A (Outer Ring Road) and Phase II-B (connecting airport) are designed for the establishment of solar panels. The official told the media that the new stations would carry an additional load on their rooftops. The depots and stations of the Phase I network have a curved roof structure. As maintenance will be a problem, existing stations will not have solar panels. The BMRCL’s yearly report also says that the stations and depot areas will hold solar-based power systems. Most metro corporations across the country comprising Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi and Kochi have already established solar plants in the stations and depots for inducing electricity to satisfy the day-to-day power needs for lighting and other auxiliary requirements. The usage of solar power is anticipated to decrease BMRCL’s dependence on BESCOM as the corporation spends around Rs 5 crore a month on the electricity bill. Likely, the BMRCL would not be under stress to pass the load on to the passengers. Officials also confirmed that the proposal to establish solar panels at Baiyappanahalli and Peenya depots is on hold. A BMRCL official told the media that they plan to remodel the Baiyappanahalli depot to provide the ORR Metro line. Hence, they are not planning to establish panels in these two depots. Image Source Also read: Indian Railways floats tender for 210 MW solar projects