(UK)
A project is underway in the UK to gauge the viability of powering trains with solar energy.
The Renewable Traction Power project – funded by Innovate UK’s Energy Game Changers programme – will look at the viability of using solar panels trackside to power trains.
By connecting solar panels directly to the lines supplying electricity to the trains, the system would bypass the grid and provide power when needed. This offgrid solution could herald a revolution when it comes to public transport’s green credentials.
The pioneering project is is a collaboration between Imperial College London, 10:10, Turbo Power Systems, Community Energy South and Energy Futures Lab.
An Imperial College London news article revealed the results of the study will be released later this year.
