The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a proposal for a new hydro-electric power generation project at the Middle Vaitarna Dam. This dam is expected to provide 25 megawatts (MW) of “clean energy” to power Mumbai’s electric buses as well as street lights across the metropolitan city.
As of now, BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport) has a total of 21 e-buses and the authorities have already proposed the addition of 25 more buses. It’s worth pointing out that BEST’s charging zones at Backbay, Worli and Dharavi depots are currently powered by thermal energy, so it’s clear that it may take some time yet to shift to 100% renewable energy. But this is certainly a good start.
Municipal Commissioner of Mumbai, Praveen Pardeshi said, “The project will boost BEST's financial strength. The generated renewable energy will be used to charge e-buses... 1,000 e-buses will hit the road in phases..."
BMC’s recently announced budget also saw a push for solar energy, saying: “The BMC has...commissioned solar power plants at Bhandup Complex and Pise-Panjrapur Complex, which resulted in power savings. Therefore, it is proposed to undertake another solar power plant of 2.5 Mega Watt peak capacity at Bhandup Complex.”
Also Read: 7 Key Highlights Of BMC Budget 2020-21
BMC’s budget included a number of new changes, including the vision to convert Mumbai into a developed city by 2030 while also seeking to increase the Citizens Happiness Index by providing and improving the amenities provided to residents of the city.
The civic body also showed concern for the growing CO2 concentration in Mumbai’s atmosphere and recommended motorists to bring down the average speed of commute from 40km/h to 20km/h.
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