Research and analysis

Low cost electrification for branch lines

Establishing if it can be economically feasible to electrify low-usage branch lines on the National Rail network.

From:
Department for Transport
Published
15 May 2012

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Low cost electrification for branch lines

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Details

This report has been prepared as a result of work undertaken for a Department for Transport (DfT) research project about low-cost electrification.

The objective of the research is to establish if it can be economically feasible to electrify low-usage branch lines on the National Rail network. Such lines are currently operated using diesel multiple unit (DMU) type rolling stock and it is considered that replacing these with modern tram-type electric vehicles can offer the following benefits:

  • reduced operating costs, particularly with regard to rolling stock
  • immunity from short-term fluctuations of fuel costs
  • a reduction in overall carbon emissions
  • reduced impact on the local environment (air quality and noise levels)
  • improved passenger experience
Published 15 May 2012