BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16
Trend:
A memorandum of understanding on cooperation in renewable energy sources and energy efficiency was signed between Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) and UAE’s Masdar company during a groundbreaking ceremony for the 230 MW Garadagh Solar Power Plant, held in Gulustan Palace in Baku on March 15, Trend reports via the CJSC.
The main purpose of the memorandum is to formalize the intention of the parties to explore the possibilities of using renewable energy sources in the railway sector and implement a comprehensive energy efficiency program.
The basis of cooperation is the study of the potential development of renewable and clean energy projects (solar and wind energy) in the railway sector of Azerbaijan by Masdar company in coordination and partnership with ADY, identification of technically and commercially viable renewable energy projects.
ADY has implemented a number of measures to increase the share of green energy in total energy consumption and reduce energy consumption by increasing efficiency.
So, in accordance with the priority of creating a country with a clean environment and green growth, which is one of the five national priorities for socio-economic development, initiatives to increase the share of green energy, reducing fuel consumption and green financing were determined as strategic priorities in the overall energy consumption within the framework of the 10-year corporate strategy of ADY.
The operation of traction substations built in connection with the transition to alternating current in sections of the East-West and North-South international transport corridors passing through Azerbaijan will reduce electricity consumption by up to 30 percent compared to the existing system.
For the purpose of technical inspection and repair of locomotives running on alternating current, 147 solar panels with a capacity of 66 kW, as well as 160 solar heating panels were installed in the newly built Bilajari locomotive depot. Some 210 solar panels with a capacity of 66 kW and 140 solar heating panels were installed in the newly built Ganja locomotive depot.
Besides, within the technical assistance project implemented with the support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, in 2019, an analysis was carried out on priority investment plans for electricity management and commercialization, energy efficiency and renewable energy production, as well as on key areas of activity indicated in the "Pre-feasibility study for the sale of electricity, renewal and energy efficiency of ADY" report.
A number of reforms have also been implemented to reduce the consumption of electricity, fuel and other energy resources within the framework of the Railway Sector Development Program, implemented jointly with the Asian Development Bank.
