NCRTC Collaborates with PTC India for Sustainable Power Solutions on RRTS Corridor.

The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) announced on Monday that it has partnered with Power Trading Corporation (PTC India) to procure low-cost power, including green energy, through power exchanges for its Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor. This collaboration aims to lower overall energy costs, a significant component of NCRTC’s operational expenses.

Under the agreement, NCRTC will source power for its Receiving Substations (RSS) in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad, Modipuram, Shatabdi Nagar, and Muradnagar, as well as Sarai Kale Khan (SKK) in Delhi. The move is intended to reduce the energy costs associated with operating the Namo Bharat trains, which rely on electricity for smooth functioning. With energy expenses accounting for 30-35% of operational costs, NCRTC is focused on minimizing this burden.

Currently, NCRTC sources electricity from local Discoms, but the partnership with PTC India will enable the transport body to explore power exchanges if they offer lower tariffs than Discom rates. PTC India, known for its expertise in the power exchange market, will assist NCRTC in securing reliable and cost-effective energy, ensuring uninterrupted operations.

Shalabh Goel, Managing Director of NCRTC, stated, "A capital-intensive project like the RRTS needs long-term sustainability. We are excited to partner with PTC India to manage our energy needs and secure cost-effective, green energy solutions to reduce our carbon footprint."

The agreement represents a key step in NCRTC’s broader strategy to implement sustainable and innovative practices. The power trading arrangement will initially cover the currently operational 42 km section between Sahibabad and Meerut South, which serves nine stations. The full RRTS corridor, along with the Meerut Metro, is expected to be operational by June 2025.

HBL