Indian Railways to Achieve Net Zero Emissions Ahead of 2030 Target

Indian Railways is anticipated to meet its net zero aims this year, considerably ahead of the 2030 ambitions. According to officials, the national transporter will achieve "Scope 1 net zero" by the end of December, which means it will eliminate direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by offsetting 2.2 million tones of CO2 (200,000 tones more than its own emissions). 

Indirect emissions, such electricity from thermal power plants, are now being reduced by state-run trains. According to official estimates, carbon emissions of the Indian Railways declined from 3.32 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) in 2023-24. "At 90% electric traction (in 2024-25), Scope 1 carbon emissions stood at 2.02 mtpa. This will come down to 1.37 mtpa with 95% electric traction from 2025-26 onwards," the official said.

Key Highlights:

•  Indian Railways to achieve Scope 1 net zero emissions by December 2025.
• Carbon emissions drop to 2.02 mtpa with 90% electric traction adoption.
• Plans underway to source 10 GW power via nuclear, renewable, and distributors.

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In addition to planning for nuclear energy, the railways are attempting to obtain additional solar and wind energy in addition to moving to electric trains. The official went on to say, "This will address indirect emissions (Scope II and III)." By the end of this decade, it is anticipated that the Indian Railways would need roughly 10 gigawatts (GW) of electricity to run its trains. Three GW of this will come from nuclear and thermal power in 2030, while another three GW will come from renewable energy sources like hydropower. We will work with power distribution firms to source the remaining 4 GW.