Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates will investigate the use of renewable sources of energy in the railway industry.
This is evident in the agreement of understanding on cooperation in renewable energy sources and energy efficiency signed on March 15 by Azerbaijan Railways and the Masdar firm of the United Arab Emirates during a groundbreaking ceremony for the 230 MW Garadagh solar power plant, Azernews reports.
In addition, the memorandum calls for the establishment of a comprehensive energy efficiency program.
The parties shall evaluate the potential growth of renewable and clean energy projects in Azerbaijan’s railway sector, as well as identify technical and financially feasible renewable energy projects, according to the memorandum.
Azerbaijan Railways has adopted a variety of steps aimed at boosting the percentage of green energy in overall energy consumption while also lowering energy consumption via increased efficiency.
Within the context of Azerbaijan Railway’s 10-year business strategy, a rise in the percentage of green energy, reduced fuel use, and green finance are listed as key goals.
The operation of traction substations established in conjunction with the switch to alternating current in parts of the East-West and North-South international transport corridors that travel through Azerbaijan would lower power consumption by up to 30% compared to the current system.
Furthermore, 147 solar panels with a capacity of 66 kW, as well as 160 solar heating panels, were put in the newly built Bilajari locomotive depot for the purpose of technical inspection and maintenance of alternating current locomotives. In addition, 210 solar panels with a capacity of 66 kW and 140 solar heating panels were put in the newly constructed Ganja locomotive depot.
Furthermore, as part of the technical assistance project funded by the EBRD, an analysis was conducted on priority investment plans for electricity management and commercialization, energy efficiency, and renewable energy production, as well as key areas of activity identified in the report “pre-feasibility study for the sale of electricity, renewal, and energy efficiency of Azerbaijan Railways.”
A number of changes have also been adopted to minimize the use of power, fuel, and other energy resources as part of the “railway sector development program,” which is being executed in collaboration with the ADB.