technologyIndia·2026-04-22

Green Metro: How Indian Metro Networks Are Powering Up on Solar Energy

Indian metro systems are leading a green energy revolution, with several networks running on 100% renewable energy for parts of the day.

India's metro networks have become unexpected leaders in green energy adoption. Several systems now generate significant portions of their power from solar installations.

Kochi Metro:

Entire rooftop covered in solar panels
Generates approximately 12.5 MWp
Claims to be the world's first metro to offset 100% of its energy with renewables (via RECs)
Winner of multiple international sustainability awards

Delhi Metro (DMRC):

Over 100 MW of solar capacity installed across stations and depots
Several stations certified LEED Platinum
Target: 50% renewable energy by 2027

Namma Metro (Bengaluru):

Solar panels on station rooftops across Purple and Green lines
Regenerative braking systems feed power back to the grid

Hyderabad Metro:

Solar panels across all 57 elevated stations
Claims to be "carbon neutral" for its operational phase

Benefits:

Reduced electricity bills → lower operational costs → less pressure to raise fares
Environmental benefit: Each metro trip vs. car removes approximately 130g of CO₂ per km

India's metro systems collectively generate over 300 MW of solar power — equivalent to the energy needs of a small Indian city.

Tags

metro solar energygreen metroKochi MetroDMRC solarsustainable transport
Note: This article is for informational purposes. MetroWala recommends verifying all metro information with official operators before travel. Metro networks are subject to service changes.