MSRTC Plans 300MW Solar Hub for ₹1,000 Crore Annual Savings

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is launching a large-scale solar energy initiative called the 'Solar Energy Hub' to generate approximately 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity annually, valued at around Rs 1,000 crore. This project aims to meet the corporation's growing power needs, which are expected to rise from the current 15 MW to 280 MW due to the introduction of thousands of electric buses. By generating its own solar power through installations on depots, workshops, bus stations, open land, and potentially additional government land, MSRTC anticipates saving up to Rs 1,000 crore annually on electricity costs and reducing its dependence on government subsidies. The project will be implemented through public-private partnerships and leverage financial assistance from central and state renewable energy schemes, positioning MSRTC as a model for sustainable and financially self-reliant public transport infrastructure in Maharashtra. Officials emphasize that the savings generated will be reinvested to enhance services and create a cleaner, greener transport system. This ambitious solar energy push is expected to serve as a pioneering example for renewable energy adoption across the state.