Summary
Several tech companies are working on projects to switch trains from diesel to electric power using renewable energy sources like solar panels. Riding Sunbeams, a start-up, has created a small solar array that directly powers trains. The project shows how solar power can help reduce railways' reliance on fossil fuels.
Key Facts
- Riding Sunbeams built a small solar array at Aldershot station that directly powers trains.
- The Aldershot solar installation provides 40 kilowatts of power, similar to 10 typical home solar setups.
- Diesel trains are common worldwide; transitioning to electric trains can be expensive and complicated.
- Solar panels produce direct current (DC), which differs from the alternating current (AC) used by some train systems.
- Engineers in England are developing a device to convert DC to AC for effective use of solar power with trains.
- Network Rail is looking for suppliers to create new renewable energy projects for railways.
- The University of Huddersfield developed software that aids in building overhead electric lines, reducing costs.
- Polish start-up Nevomo is working on an electromagnetic railway propulsion system.
