The railway sector innovates to become the most efficient and sustainable means of transport

Did you know that while rail networks account for 9% of passenger transport and 7% of freight transport worldwide, they are only responsible for 3% of global transport energy consumption? Even when trains run on fossil fuels (such as diesel), on average, their energy efficiency is almost twelve times higher than that of road transport per passenger/kilometre, and eight times higher than lorries per tonne of freight. Therefore, the integration of railway and energy projects represents a key opportunity for sustainable development and technological innovation.

One of the most advanced trends in the railway sector to significantly reduce its environmental impact and improve operational efficiency is the integration of renewable energies, such as solar-powered railway systems and the installation of solar panels along railway tracks and on station roofs. These installations can generate significant amounts of clean energy, reducing the carbon footprint of operations. Some examples include solar-powered trains and solar farms used to power railway networks. Moreover, wind turbines located along railway corridors or railway stations can harness wind energy, contributing to the overall energy mix of railway systems.

Alongside the integration of renewable energies, there are other trends being studied in the field of innovation and technology, such as the use of smart grid technologies. Smart grids allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy consumption, leading to more efficient and reliable railway operations. This aspect, in symbiosis with the electrification of railways, reduces dependence on diesel engines, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Another technology with extraordinary potential is the application and use of hydrogen fuel cells, as they represent a viable alternative to diesel engines for trains, especially on non-electrified tracks. Hydrogen-powered trains produce zero emissions, and research is focused on improving the efficiency and profitability of hydrogen production and storage.

We cannot fail to highlight the crucial role of artificial intelligence and machine learning. AI doubles its capacity every 60 days. With this data, we can safely say that artificial intelligence and self-learning will play a fundamental role in optimising energy use, predictive maintenance and operational efficiency in railway systems. These technologies will lead to smarter, more responsive rail networks.

However, these advances also bring technological and integration challenges that require planning, investment and a long-term vision. Ensuring compatibility and seamless operation between traditional rail components and modern energy solutions is essential to avoid disruption. Similarly, the storage and efficient management of energy generated from renewable sources remains a challenge, and advances in battery technology and energy management systems are crucial to resolving this issue. In this scenario, collaboration between companies, administrations and research centres will be key to consolidating a cleaner, more efficient and more resilient railway system.

Applus+ has participated in supporting design works, project drafting and technical documentation for power supply plants and railway systems. Specifically, we recently collaborated in an audit campaign of railway and non-railway facilities throughout Spain, resulting in the development of a strategic plan for the implementation of energy efficiency improvement measures in accordance with a customised technical and economic analysis. Our goal is to actively contribute to consolidating a cleaner, more efficient and resilient railway system.

We firmly believe that the evolution of rail transport is not only possible, but necessary. And it is already underway. The transformation towards a more efficient, digitised and sustainable system is not an option, but a commitment to the future. Backed by technological innovation, collaborative work and a strategic vision, rail is consolidating its position as a key pillar of sustainable mobility. Drawing on our technical knowledge and experience in the sector, we will continue to promote solutions that contribute to accelerating this necessary change towards a cleaner, safer and more resilient energy and transport model.