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In a significant step towards advancing renewable energy in India, Madhya Pradesh will supply 170 MW of solar energy to Indian Railways. This was revealed during a meeting between Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi. The two leaders held an extensive discussion on energy requirements for the railways, with the focus on solar energy as a key solution.
Union Minister Vaishnaw took to X to announce the development, stating, “Indian Railways will get 170 MW solar energy from Madhya Pradesh. A detailed discussion on energy requirements was held with Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav.” In response, CM Yadav expressed gratitude, highlighting that this move would be a major achievement for the state in fulfilling the energy needs of Indian Railways.
Madhya Pradesh has been at the forefront of promoting solar energy. The state’s government has made significant strides in renewable energy, with its renewable energy capacity increasing 14-fold over the past 12 years. From a modest 500 MW in 2012, the state’s current renewable energy capacity stands at approximately 7,000 MW, accounting for 21% of the state’s total energy production. Looking ahead, the government aims to increase the renewable energy capacity to 20,000 MW by 2030.
The Rewa Solar Project, one of the largest single-site solar plants globally, is located in Madhya Pradesh. Spanning over 1,590 hectares, this project has become an emblem of the state’s commitment to green energy. Notably, 76% of the energy produced by the Rewa Solar Project is used by the Power Management Company, while the remaining 24% is provided to commercial institutions like Delhi Metro through open access. This innovative approach to energy distribution has earned the Rewa Solar Project international recognition, including inclusion in Harvard University and Singapore Management University case studies. Additionally, it has helped prevent 15.7 lakh tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, the equivalent of planting 26 million trees. The project was also honored with the World Bank President Award in 2017.
The state is also working on developing the world’s largest floating solar project of 600 MW in Omkareshwar, situated along the banks of the Narmada River.
Through these efforts, Madhya Pradesh is not only aiming to become self-reliant in renewable energy but also plans to supply solar energy to states and commercial institutions in need, positioning itself as a global role model in the solar energy sector. With the state’s commitment to scaling up its renewable energy capacity, the partnership with Indian Railways marks just one of many milestones in Madhya Pradesh’s green energy revolution.