Powering a greener railway
Developing standards for battery-powered trains.
Richard TurnerPrincipal Rolling Stock Systems Engineer, RSSB
Battery-powered trains can play a big part in the effort to decarbonise the railway. Reducing reliance on diesel units will make ours a greener and more cost-effective network. But introducing a new method of power to our existing system requires a high level of organisation, skill, and innovation.
We’re working with industry to produce a new standard and guidance to support the wider adoption of battery-powered trains on the GB rail network. With new standards in place, this can be done safely, reliably, and cohesively.
The new standard and guidance have been closely based on the latest research and best practices from the industry. They address operational and technical issues associated with traction batteries, including:
identifying key features for battery protection and monitoring systems
determining compatibility of battery charging infrastructure
monitoring battery health data
aligning with legal compliance
standardising assurance.
Working to the specifications of the standards will improve the efficiency and safety of battery-powered trains and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for the railway. In all, we estimate this initiative will save the industry £1.2 million over 5 years. This will stem from ensuring quality design, efficient maintenance, and safe operation of these trains.
We’ll keep you updated on this crucial work in our regular standards newsletter.
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