In the wake of COP26, key stakeholders in the rail industry are coming under increasing pressure to employ more sustainable ways of providing traction power. According to the UNIFE (Union des Industries Ferroviaires Européennes) association of European rolling stock builders and suppliers, rail transport is by far the most carbon-efficient mode of transport for both passengers and freight.
When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from rail networks, the greatest opportunity will be switching from diesel power to electrified lines. However, full route electrification can be both difficult and costly. A more affordable option is to adopt a hybrid method – a combination of partially-electrified sections, allied to onboard battery systems for any remaining non-electrified sections. It then becomes a balancing act of minimising costs and emissions.
