Cut the train drain

Saving the environment is a hot topic and different industries are always looking at how they can contribute. The rail industry is no different and a recent study shows that savings can be made in many areas.

Annual electric traction energy consumption across the UK's rail operations could be cut by about 25 per cent over the next few years, with opportunities for even more in the longer term.

Interfleet was commissioned by the

to examine potential traction energy savings/reductions in CO

emissions in the industry, in particular to see how the rail industry can reduce energy consumption from train operations at the same time as helping the environment.

Working closely with sub-contractors

and Prof Roger Kemp of

, the report's authors identified about 50 opportunities, which could offer potential CO

and/or cost savings.

The study identified the losses in power generation and distribution, tracing them through electric train operational and traction systems where energy is consumed or wasted.