Indian Railways Ramps Up Renewable Energy Usage for Traction With 812 MW Solar and 93 MW Wind Capacity Commissioned; Targets Net Zero by 2030

Indian Railways has significantly advanced its clean energy transition, commissioning 812 MW of solar power and 93 MW of wind power for traction needs as of November 2025. In addition, 1,600 MW of Round-the-Clock (RTC) renewable power—comprising solar, wind, and storage—has been tied up to further support its decarbonization efforts.

According to a written reply in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, the national transporter is making rapid progress toward its goal of becoming a Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030.

The adoption of renewable energy is part of a broader modernization strategy that includes extensive electrification, technological upgrades, and efficiency improvements across the railway network.

Electrification Surges to 99.2% of Broad Gauge Network

Indian Railways reported that 99.2% of its Broad Gauge (BG) network has been electrified, with the remaining sections under execution. Electrification has more than doubled since 2014—rising from 21,801 route km electrified over six decades before 2014 to 46,900 route km during 2014–2025. This shift has substantially reduced dependence on coal-based and diesel locomotives.

Energy-Efficient Locomotives and Heritage Steam Engines

The Railways is now manufacturing advanced three-phase IGBT-based locomotives equipped with regenerative braking, allowing energy to be fed back into the system and improving overall efficiency. Steam locomotives continue to operate only on UNESCO-accredited mountain railways, seasonal services, and select charter routes due to their heritage value.

Renewable Power Procurement Gains Momentum

To meet traction power requirements sustainably, Indian Railways is implementing a strategic renewable energy procurement plan. Along with the commissioned solar and wind capacity, 100 MW of RTC power from the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has already begun supplying traction needs. An additional 1,500 MW RTC hybrid capacity—integrating solar, wind, and storage—has been tied up to further strengthen the supply.

The Railways’ traction expenditure for 2023–24 stood at ₹29,614 crore, covering all forms of traction energy.

Hydrogen Train Pilot Demonstrates Future of Green Mobility

In a major innovation milestone, Indian Railways is executing a pilot project for its first hydrogen-powered train, developed under specifications by the Research, Design & Standards Organization (RDSO). The initiative reflects a growing commitment to alternative clean energy technologies within India’s transport sector.

The shift toward renewable power, coupled with technological modernization, forms the core of Indian Railways’ strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.