The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) is making a fresh attempt to exploit the potential of solar energy at its properties by partnering with private firms. The corporation had announced similar plans in Baiyappanahalli and Peenya depots but the project did not take off.
A senior BMRCL official confirmed that all stations proposed under Namma Metro’s Phase II, Phase II-A (Outer Ring Road) and Phase II-B (connecting airport) are designed for the installation of solar panels. “The new stations are designed to take additional load on their rooftops. The depots and stations of Phase I network have curve roof structure. Since maintenance will be an issue, existing stations will not have solar panels,” he said.
The BMRCL’s annual report also states that the stations and depot areas will have solar-based power systems. Most Metro corporations across the country including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi and Chennai have already installed solar plants in the stations and depots for drawing electricity to meet the day-to-day power demands for lighting and other auxiliary requirements.