The Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), affiliated with the Tata Memorial Centre in India, is benefiting from a solarization program initiated by the Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CERE) in partnership with BNP Paribas. This project, part of CERE’s “Switch on Solar” program, involves the installation of 996 kWp of photovoltaic panels on the research center’s infrastructure.
A three-phase transition
The solar system deployment is being carried out in three distinct phases. The first phase, completed in 2024, involved the installation of 327 kWp on two buildings, generating approximately 488,337 kWh of electricity in the first year. The second phase, currently underway, includes the addition of 365 kWp on the RRS and Ward buildings. The final phase, scheduled for 2025-2026, will involve installing an additional 305 kWp, bringing the total capacity to 996 kWp.
The entire system is expected to produce 1.44 million kWh of electricity in its first year and reach 34.41 million kWh over 25 years. This production aims to significantly lower ACTREC’s energy expenses, estimated at INR 35 crores (approximately €3.9 million), while reducing carbon emissions by 30,900 tons of CO₂.
Resource optimization and cost management
ACTREC is a specialized hospital center with high electricity demands due to the use of advanced medical equipment, cutting-edge research laboratories, and 24-hour operational services. By integrating a clean and stable energy source, the institution reduces its dependence on the conventional power grid, ensuring better control over its energy expenditures.
The savings generated will be reinvested into funding medical treatments for patients from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through this initiative, ACTREC will expand its healthcare offerings and improve access to cancer treatment.
A project aligned with national energy goals
The photovoltaic installation aligns with India’s energy strategy, which targets 50% of its electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. The country aims to reach a total renewable electricity generation capacity of 500 GW by the same deadline.
The ACTREC project also follows the momentum of India’s 2024 budget, which emphasizes the promotion of renewable energy through tax incentives and subsidies for rooftop solar installations. Current energy policies support initiatives such as the “Suryodaya Yojana” program, which encourages residential and institutional solar development nationwide.
The collaboration between BNP Paribas and CERE highlights a targeted approach to financing sustainable energy infrastructure. Through this model, the banking sector plays a crucial role in implementing energy optimization solutions for public and hospital institutions.
