In a major push towards sustainable and eco-friendly urban transport, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has announced plans to develop a 110 MW solar power plant in Uttar Pradesh to power the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Namo Bharat corridor. The project work has been awarded to NLC India Limited (NLC), a central public sector undertaking under the administrative control of the Ministry of Coal, Government of India.
The solar power plant is expected to be completed within the next 24 months and, once operational, will cater to nearly 60 percent of the total electricity requirement of the Namo Bharat corridor. This marks a significant milestone in NCRTC’s journey toward greener and more energy-efficient transport operations.
First-of-Its-Kind Captive Solar Power Plant for RRTS and Metro Systems
With this initiative, NCRTC is introducing the concept of a captive solar power plant for RRTS and Metro transit systems in India. The solar project will be developed through a joint venture between NCRTC and NLC India Limited.
The plant will be located in Uttar Pradesh and connected to the state power grid. Power generated from the solar facility will be transmitted through the state grid to the Receiving Substations (RSS) in both Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. From these substations, electricity will be distributed across the entire Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply for operations.
Significant Environmental Benefits and Carbon Emission Reduction
The project holds immense importance from an environmental standpoint. According to estimates, the solar power plant will help reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by approximately 1.77 lakh tonnes annually. This substantial reduction will contribute directly to promoting cleaner and more sustainable urban mobility in the Delhi–NCR region.
Unlike conventional power generation methods based on fossil fuels, solar energy does not emit harmful pollutants, making it a cleaner alternative for large-scale transport infrastructure.
Major Reduction in Operational Electricity Costs
Electricity forms one of the largest cost components in operating the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Namo Bharat corridor. At present, around 30 to 35 percent of NCRTC’s total operational expenditure is attributed to electricity consumption.
Once the 110 MW solar power plant becomes operational, NCRTC expects to achieve nearly 25 percent reduction in electricity expenses, leading to long-term financial sustainability and reduced dependency on conventional power sources.
Alignment with National Solar Mission and Clean Energy Goals
This initiative aligns strongly with the objectives of the National Solar Mission, reinforcing the Government of India’s commitment to increasing the share of renewable energy in critical infrastructure projects. By integrating large-scale solar power into its transport system, NCRTC is setting an example of how urban transport development can go hand in hand with environmental conservation.
Cleaner Air and Improved Quality of Life in Delhi–NCR
Beyond cost savings and emission reduction, the project is also expected to contribute to better air quality in urban areas. Solar power generation does not release harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur dioxide (SO₂), which are major contributors to air pollution and respiratory health issues.
By reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity, this initiative will support cleaner air, healthier living conditions, and an improved quality of life for residents across the Delhi–NCR region.
A Model Project for Future Urban Transport Systems
The large-scale adoption of solar energy for a high-speed regional transport corridor positions this project as a potential model for future Metro and RRTS projects across India. It demonstrates how renewable energy solutions can be seamlessly integrated into public transport systems to achieve both economic efficiency and environmental responsibility.
With this landmark initiative, NCRTC continues to strengthen its role as a pioneer in sustainable urban mobility, setting new benchmarks for green transport infrastructure in the country.
