In Short : Indian Railways is planning to establish captive nuclear power plants as part of its strategy to become a net-zero emitter. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the railway sector’s carbon footprint by harnessing nuclear energy, which provides a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. The move is a crucial step towards achieving sustainability and supporting India’s broader climate goals.
In Detail : Indian Railways is actively exploring the use of nuclear power through captive units as part of its strategy to increase reliance on non-fossil fuel and renewable energy sources.
As the world’s fourth-largest railway network, Indian Railways has set its sights on becoming a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030. To achieve this, the railways is committed to slashing its emissions by harnessing renewable energy to power its operations.
By 2030, Indian Railways’ energy demand is expected to surge to 8,200 MW, or 8.2 GW. Meeting this demand will require a massive renewable energy installed capacity of 30,000 MW, as solar and wind energy availability fluctuates by region and time of day.
According to a report in businessline, Indian Railways will soon begin discussions with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) to explore nuclear energy options. Additionally, the railways is pursuing partnerships with the Solar Energy Corporation of India, NTPC, and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to further its renewable energy goals.
“In each case, we will look to establish our own captive power plants, including small reactors and generating units. We are currently working on revenue models and purchase agreements, with a focus on reducing operating costs,” the report stated.
Indian Railways has previously considered nuclear power. In 2013, when its peak power demand was around 4,000 MW, the railways held initial talks with NPCIL to set up a 1,400 MW nuclear power plant through a joint venture.
However, the plan faced hurdles in 2017 when efforts to partner with the Department of Atomic Energy were shelved.
In addition to exploring nuclear energy, Indian Railways is already making significant strides in commissioning solar and wind power plants and has plans to tap into hydel power as well. In every case, the focus remains on establishing captive power generation units to secure a sustainable energy future.
