Mumbai: In a major push towards sustainability and financial self-reliance, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced plans to set up large-scale solar energy projects on its vacant land and building rooftops across the state. The initiative aims to generate 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity every year—power valued at nearly Rs 1,000 crore.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Unveils ‘Solar Energy Hub’ Plan
Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik unveiled the plan during a high-level meeting at the corporation’s headquarters on Monday, attended by Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar and senior officials.
Solar Panels To Be Installed On Depots, Workshops, And Unused Land
Sarnaik described the upcoming ‘Solar Energy Hub’ as an ambitious model project that could serve as a benchmark for other state entities in the years ahead. Under the plan, solar panels will be installed not only on the rooftops of depots, workshops, and bus stands but also across large tracts of unutilized MSRTC land. Additional barren government land may also be leased, if necessary, at nominal rates.
MSRTC’s Power Demand Expected To Surge With Electric Buses
Currently, MSRTC consumes around 15 MW of power annually—incurring electricity expenses of Rs 25–30 crore paid to the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSEDCL). However, with the upcoming rollout of thousands of electric buses, the corporation’s power demand is projected to surge to about 280 MW.
Solar Power To Save ₹1,000 Crore Annually And Cut Subsidy Dependence
By producing its own solar energy, MSRTC expects to save roughly Rs 1,000 crore per year, a move that could transform the state-run transport body’s financial outlook and reduce its dependence on government subsidies.
Project To Be Implemented Under PPP Model With Renewable Energy Schemes
The project will be implemented under a public-private partnership (PPP) model and will leverage funding through various central and state renewable energy schemes.
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Sarnaik: ‘MSRTC Will Set Example For Renewable Energy Adoption’
“This initiative will not only make MSRTC energy self-sufficient but also set an example for renewable energy adoption across Maharashtra,” said Sarnaik, emphasizing the corporation’s commitment to sustainability and long-term economic stability.
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