Indian Railways is aiming high, the target is net zero carbon emissions by 2030. They’re tapping nuclear, solar, hydropower, wind, and thermal energy to power 10 gigawatts (GW) of train traction needs. This plan mixes various sources to cut emissions while keeping trains running. Here’s how it’s unfolding, based on recent reports and updates.
A Multi-Energy Strategy
The railway’s energy demand is huge. By 2030, they’ll need 10 GW for train traction. The approach combines renewables and traditional power. Solar and hydropower will lead the green charge. Nuclear and thermal energy will provide stability. This blend ensures steady supply alongside emission cuts.
- Renewable Target: Plans include 3 GW from renewables, hydropower included.
- Thermal and Nuclear: Another 3 GW will come from thermal and nuclear plants.
- Current Progress: Over 90% of trains run on electricity now, up from 63% three years ago.
A senior official stated, “Requests to earmark around 2 GW of nuclear power for Railways have been made to the power ministry.” Talks for 2 GW of thermal power via joint ventures and agreements are also in motion.
Electrification Nears Completion
Electrification is almost finished. By 2025-26, 95% of trains will use electricity. This drops direct carbon emissions to 1.37 million tones annually. That figure will stay steady through 2030. Diesel use has fallen sharply from 37% three years ago.
- Diesel Drop: Only 10% of trains rely on diesel today.
- Offset Plan: Afforestation may neutralize remaining emissions, per officials.
An official explained, “With nearly 95% trains running on electricity from 2025-26 onwards, the direct carbon emissions of the railways will come down to 1.37 million tonnes per year and will remain the same till 2030.”
Boosting Renewable Power
Renewables are scaling up fast. Solar and wind projects are active. New initiatives are rolling out. A fresh agreement with Madhya Pradesh adds more capacity.
- Solar Capacity: Solar output exceeds 238 MW as of June 2024.
- Wind Capacity: Wind generates over 103 MW.
- MP Deal: A 170 MW power purchase agreement with Madhya Pradesh began in February 2025.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced at the MP Global Investors Summit 2025, “Today’s signing of the 170 MW power purchase agreement with Madhya Pradesh is a significant step in this direction.” He noted Railways could take all renewable energy Madhya Pradesh offers if supply holds.
Future Steps and Challenges
The path to net zero has hurdles. Securing nuclear and hydropower deals is key. Plans for 1.5 GW of hydropower are in discussion. Energy efficiency at stations and units is another focus. Carbon-negative efforts, like green stations, are also planned.
- Nuclear Push: Negotiations aim for 2 GW from nuclear sources.
- Hydropower: 1.5 GW projects are being explored.
- Efficiency: Solar-powered stations and upgrades are underway.
Leading the Way
Indian Railways is setting a bold pace. Electrifying a vast network is a massive task. By 2030, this mix of nuclear, solar, hydropower, and more could reshape rail energy use. The focus is on execution and scaling up fast.
