Green Train Fleet

Challenge

In the power system, large base-load power plants have traditionally provided inertia, but they are now being replaced by intermittent renewable energy sources. At the same time, rotating loads are being replaced by power electronic devices. Less reliable power plants not only put the power balance at risk but also degrade the frequency quality in the power system, driving the need for frequency services and increased inertia.

Solution

Green train fleets can provide such inertia, balance the power system with renewable generation, and help decarbonize the power system, provided we can optimize and control them in a way that does not interfere with their schedules.

The project will help identify market potential and business opportunities within demand response, energy storage, flexibility supply, and inertia-related services (ancillary services). If successful, the developed algorithms could be implemented in today’s railway system, yielding cost savings for train operators and system operators. At the same time, the algorithms will support transmission system operators in the green transition by providing additional flexibility to facilitate the integration of renewable energy.

The project is co-financed by the Ministry of Education and Research.

Impact

This solution has the potential to reduce Energinet's procurement costs, resulting in lower electricity costs for end consumers.