Energy Hubs: Trackside Batteries

Network Rail is seeking a partner to design, develop, construct and operate over their lifetime a portfolio of multi MW scale battery systems to support rail traction power and is publishing this PIN with the intention of holding a supplier engagement briefing.

Network Rail purchases 3.7TWh of electricity to provide traction power for passenger and freight trains using over 105 connections to the transmission and distribution electricity networks. Future electrification and battery trains will significantly increase traction power and connection points.

Traction power loads have high peaks as well as periods of low consumption. Trackside battery systems can manage consumption for the benefit of the rail and power system operators. Trackside batteries can be located near current and future grid connection points or at many more locations close to an electrified rail line.

Network Rail is working with Scottish Power Energy Networks, GE, Ricardo, Leeds University and NG-ESO to demonstrate a MW scale trackside battery at a site in Scotland.

Part of the demonstration project is to develop the path for wider commercial implementation of larger trackside battery systems at a number of locations.

Network Rail is seeking a partner to design, develop, construct and operate a portfolio under a long-term services estimated at £150 to £200million.