Smart cities, the growth of urban populations, and sustainability are driving the expansion of rail and urban transportation networks.

Antonio Colla, electrification global rail segment leader for ABB, explores the power distribution innovations that are making it possible.

Global rail infrastructure continues to grow at a rapid pace due to a combination of urbanization, mounting global warming concerns, energy instability and the emergence of smart, digitalized cities.

By 2045, the world’s urban population will increase by 1.5 times to 6 billion, impacting traffic and congestion, particularly in emerging economies like India and China, and driving demand for additional rail infrastructure. At the same time, many countries in the developed world are pivoting towards cleaner modes of transportation, with the EU Commission set to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050 as part of its green and digital transformation of the European transport system.

A robust rail-centric network is also set to form the backbone of the expanding smart transportation framework of autonomous shuttles, ride-sharers, and scooters.

The total market is expected to reach €204bn ($223.9bn) by 2025, from €177bn ($194.3bn) in 2019, offering huge opportunities for technology leaders to support rail and transport stakeholders’ growth ambitions particularly when it comes to the all-important task of power distribution.

Speed as a driver

With millions of people relying on train and subway systems, and even the smallest delay or issue caused by a power outage quickly leading to chaos and widespread disruption, one of the most important considerations for any rail operator is a reliable and resilient power supply.

Not only that, any modernization or modification work that is carried out must be done at speed and with as little disruption to service as possible. It must also be tailored to the specific country or region’s set of circumstances, including existing infrastructure and their growth ambitions.

ABB’s scalable power distribution systems not only meet these requirements but are also designed to make existing urban transport infrastructure more sustainable, energy-efficient, and digitalized.

For larger upgrades with limited time available for execution, there is the option of an e-house, which is a prefabricated, pre-tested transportable substation, designed to house medium- and low-voltage switchgear, critical power equipment and automation cabinets for remote command and control.

This is more cost-effective and less risky than conventional construction as installation and commissioning time is minimal, meaning there is limited impact on revenue when existing lines are being retrofitted or extended.

Operators will get the best out of a modular approach, however, if they think longer term, looking to not only serve their immediate economic needs but also support their future vision. When planned properly, modular upgrades give the opportunity to modernize in incremental stages while maintaining reliability and business as usual.

The role of energy management systems

Aside from traditional infrastructure projects, there is also growing interest in finding new ways to use energy more productively in urban transport. Network operators are seeking to build resilience amid unstable grid infrastructure, while environmental concerns increasingly demand reductions in energy use.

One answer lies with battery energy storage systems. Although not new, this technology can help operators manage energy costs by leveraging peak shaving, load shifting, and maximizing self-consumption.

For example, battery energy storage systems can recover regenerative braking energy – the energy generated in the process of slowing down a train, which is traditionally wasted – and allow other trains to partially reuse it. They can also provide critical backup power, preventing revenue losses due to outages, while contributing to energy reductions and making the overall railroad system more competitive.

It is an unprecedented time for the urban transport sector as it seeks to address the challenges of densifying city centers, sustainability and future mobility, all while serving customers’ immediate needs. By taking advantage of the newest innovations designed to power this new age of growth, operators and investors can ensure that they are on the right track.