Solar revolution on tracks: Greenrail transforms railways
Greenrail has demonstrated that solar energy can be harvested not only through photovoltaic panels on rooftops; they have developed panels that can be installed on railway tracks.
The popularity of photovoltaic panels is increasing at an impressive rate. More and more homes are opting for this method of energy generation to save money amidst rising electricity prices. Interest in "solars" is growing throughout Europe, including Italy, where Greenrail is developing innovative solutions in rail photovoltaics.
Photovoltaics on tracks
A pilot program is currently underway on a 1-kilometre section of railway track between Modena and Sassuolo in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. This project is the result of work that began in 2018 when the concept of photovoltaic panels on tracks was first introduced.
In collaboration with Politecnico di Milano, the company conducted a six-month test to evaluate the efficiency of its energy panels. They also examined the impact of climate conditions and train traffic on efficiency. The results were very positive; it was determined that track-mounted panels can generate about 35 MWh of energy annually per kilometre of track.
The initial track panel project was a prototype, but Greenrail views it as the beginning of a broader implementation of this technological innovation.
What about pollution from trains?
Concerns have been raised about maintaining the cleanliness of railway sleepers, considering train waste. However, Greenrail's president, Emanuele Occhipinti, assures that cleaning a railway line with panels takes only a few minutes. This process involves special machines equipped with brushes and water sprayers.
The Italian company highlights the ease of installation and the speed of implementing its technology. Additionally, it produces the sleepers using recycled materials.
