Flexible Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels

Alternative fuel research and development for railways

Higher education and research

Higher education and research

Switzerland

Picardie

India

Earlier initiative to retrofit diesel-electric multiple unit (DEMU) trains with flexible solar PV panels, which proved successful and led to expansion to mainline passenger coaches.

Initiative to retrofit Indian Railways passenger train coaches with flexible solar photovoltaic panels to power coach amenities and reduce operational costs and carbon emissions.

Lightweight flexible solar panels designed for installation on railway coach roofs. Weighing approximately 120 kg combined per coach, they generate 15-20 kilowatt hours of electricity daily to power lights, fans, and mobile charging points.

These panels are an alternative to traditional photovoltaic models, offering versatility and the ability to harvest solar energy using more affordable materials. They can be installed without mountings and integrated seamlessly into building designs.

An advanced electrolyte system developed by researchers that significantly improves the efficiency of solar power cells by breaking through the double-digit efficiency barrier, enabling use in next-generation flexible solar cells.