Pune Railway Division Leads the Way in Green Stations with Extensive Solar Power Initiatives
Reported by Amit Singh
Pune, 28th February 2025: The Pune Railway Division is making significant strides in sustainable energy adoption, with an extensive rooftop solar power plant installation across multiple railway stations, depots, and service buildings. The initiative, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy efficiency, has already led to substantial cost savings and environmental benefits.
Massive Solar Power Installation Across the Division
As part of its green energy drive, the Pune Division has successfully installed 2743.89 KWp of rooftop solar capacity across various locations. Between April 2024 and January 2025 alone, the division installed 1815.68 KWp of solar power. An additional 660 KWp is currently under installation, while 550 KWp is planned for the upcoming phase.
Some of the major solar installations include:
• Pune Station PRS Building – 160.65 KWp (Commissioned: June 2016)
• Pune DRM Building – 120.9 KWp (Commissioned: August 2021)
• Pune Station Roof Top – 274.56 KWp (Commissioned: November 2021)
• Kolhapur Station – 257.24 KWp (Commissioned: September 2024)
• Satara Station – 150.42 KWp (Commissioned: June 2024)
• Diesel Loco Shed GPR – 647.46 KWp (Commissioned: August 2024)
• ROH Shed DD – 418.56 KWp (Commissioned: December 2024)
Environmental Impact and Cost Savings
The initiative is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 3205 tonnes per year, which is equivalent to the impact of 1.08 lakh teak trees. Financially, the division has achieved savings of ₹12.0 lakh per month through solar energy utilization.
Speaking to Punekar News, ADRM Pune P U Jadhav stated, “The Pune Railway Division is at the forefront of India’s green railway transformation, aligning with the government’s vision for sustainable infrastructure. By harnessing solar energy, we have significantly reduced carbon emissions, contributing to the fight against global warming. Our commitment to renewable energy is not just about operational efficiency but also about ensuring a cleaner and greener future for the next generations. With ongoing and future solar installations, we are paving the way for an environmentally responsible railway network that supports India’s ambitious sustainability goals.”
SHUNYA Certification for Select Stations
As a part of its commitment to sustainable operations, the Pune Division has applied for SHUNYA/SHUNYA Plus Certification from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency for the following railway stations:
• Bhilvadi
• Rukadi
• Nandre
• Jaysingpur
This certification is awarded to buildings and infrastructure projects that achieve net-zero energy consumption and promote sustainable resource utilization.
Future Plans and Expansion
The division has outlined an additional 550 KWp of solar power capacity under the UMB-24-25 plan, which is currently under review by the Railway Board. Once approved, it will be implemented at various stations, service buildings, and residential quarters across Pune Division.
Additionally, 330 KWp solar capacity has been planned under ERW funding, with work set to commence at Hadapsar, Akurdi, Shenoli Station, and IOH Shed GCMC.
Green Achievements and Certifications
The Pune Railway Division has been recognized for its efforts in renewable energy adoption, with official certifications awarded on February 12, 2025. These achievements position Pune Division as a leader in the Indian Railways’ green energy transition.
With a clear focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, the Pune Railway Division is setting new benchmarks for environmentally responsible railway operations, contributing significantly to India’s clean energy goals.
