Technology
Pakistan Railways will switch to solar electricity at 155 stations.
Our national trains are reportedly switching to solar power. Pakistan Railways has stated that 155 railway stations will be converted to solar energy.
The instruction will be implemented in accordance with the government's objective of utilizing alternative, environmentally friendly energy sources.
In a statement, Pakistan Railways Public Relations Director Nazia Jabeen said the project will cost Rs450 million in total.
She stated that in the first phase, which would begin following the presentation of the federal budget for 2021-22, 81 railway stations would be provided with an 8-hour backup system after the whole electric system was solarized.
While 22 railway stations with a computer-based interlocking system will be converted to solar energy.
“As many as 22 railway stations would be converted to solar energy where only 2 hours backup would be provided whereas 52 railway stations would be solarized where no backup would be provided,” she informed.
The project's capacity has been anticipated to be 2308 kilowatts and 3.2 million units per year, with a 20% efficiency to be generated in a year.
“The project life will be 25 years and total 83 million units of electricity will be produced,” the official said.
The railways would save PKR 52 million per year on fuel and maintenance of diesel generators when the project is installed.
According to the official, the pricing difference between solar and WAPDA power costs will save Pakistan Railways PKR 70.62 million each year.
The change should be welcomed in a country that, despite all of the favorable conditions for a burgeoning solar industry, has lagged behind in terms of renewable energy. Currently, thermal energy (64%) and hydropower (27%) make up the majority of the energy mix.
