India’s First Vertical Bi-Facial Solar Plant on Delhi Metro Line

At the 5th International Conference on Green Metro Systems – The Future of Urban Mobility in New Delhi, India’s Minister Mr Manohar Lal inaugurated India’s first vertical bi-facial solar plant installation on Metro Viaduct at Okhla Vihar Metro station and 1MW rooftop solar power plant installed at Khyber Pass depot.

The bi-facial panels are designed to capture sunlight from both sides. It will take advantage of the metro’s elevated structure for solar energy generation without occupying any additional land. This is an innovative step in making metro rail operations more sustainable and contributes to renewable energy goals.

Speaking at the conference, Shri Manohar Lal, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs & Power, Government of India said, “As humanity progresses, our innovations often clash with nature, bringing both advancement and risk. The rise in global temperatures beyond 1.5°C has become a cause for global concern, prompting nations to unite under agreements like the Paris Accord. India, too, has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, aligning its growth with sustainability. Urbanization and industrialization have increased pollution, but initiatives such as the Delhi Metro have significantly reduced environmental impact, demonstrating that thoughtful infrastructure can drive progress while protecting nature. 

Energy efficiency and clean power are the need of the hour. Transitioning from thermal to renewable energy, utilizing solar rooftops, and implementing regenerative braking in metros exemplify the shift toward a greener future. Technological advancements, like vertical solar panels and energy-efficient LED systems, pave the way for sustainable urban living. Furthermore, responsible consumption—whether in air conditioning usage or minimizing wastage—can have a profound impact on energy conservation. 

Swachh Bharat Mission was once mocked but has transformed India’s landscape, proving that national efforts towards cleanliness and sustainability yield global recognition. Pollution reduction, water conservation, and eco-friendly mobility are not just governmental responsibilities but collective duties. The path forward is clear: balance progress with environmental responsibility, ensuring a cleaner, healthier world for future generations.”

Indian metro rail corporations are contributing to the green building movement by offering energy-efficient, low-emission public transportation thereby reducing urban pollution and traffic congestion.

Many metro stations throughout India, are designed with energy-efficient technologies and use solar power systems which help reduce energy consumption.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has been a pioneer in incorporating solar energy and many green technologies over the years. Integration of India’s First Vertical Bi-Facial Solar Plant will further push its sustainability efforts. 

Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Pune, metro rail have also received IGBC Certification for their commitment to sustainable designs and the use of green materials to further minimize their environmental impact.