Chasing a goal of becoming a net zero emitter by 2030, Indian Railways is exploring the use of nuclear power as a potential fuel generated through captive units. Railways will need 30,000 MW of renewable capacity by 2029-30 to achieve its goal. The freight major is also exploring solar, wind and hydel power, and in all the cases it will develop captive generation facilities.
Discussions would be taken up with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL). For the purpose of renewables, the Railways is exploring partnerships with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), NTPC, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), among others.
“In each case, we will look to have our own captive use power plants, small reactors, captive power generating units and so on. The revenue model or purchase pacts are being worked-on. Obviously, we will look at a lower cost model, so that operating costs come down,” said an official.
