Indian Railways, UNDP to hold efficient energy tech summit

Indian Railways said on Monday it will partner with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organise an international energy efficient technology summit on Friday.

"It is first of its kind initiative that the ministry of railways is partnering with the UNDP to explore the latest energy efficiency solutions and technology that it can reduce energy bills and facilitate sustainable development. The international summit is a step in this direction," the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry elaborated that Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has given a lot of emphasis on energy conservations and energy saving programmes which he outlined in the railway budget speech 2015-16.

"On his directions the Indian Railways has been undertaking detailed energy audit which will reveal huge potential for energy saving," the ministry said.

The summit will facilitate dissemination of information on important advances made in design and delivery of electric traction technologies and other solutions in the rail sector.

During the event, research work of experts from the field of energy efficiency will be presented. On the sidelines of the event, new technologies and innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency in the rail sector will also be showcased by technology leaders.

Also, the summit will provide a platform for policy makers, manufacturers, researchers and other stakeholders to discuss potential energy efficiency solutions and technologies for reducing the railways' carbon footprint.