How Can Batteries Improve Safety and Cost-Effectiveness of DC Railway Networks?

This market engagement questionnaire seeks input on using retrofit batteries in DC-powered train networks to enhance safety and reduce costs. DC electrification systems, commonly called '3rd rail', power trains in southern England and the Merseyside network but pose electrical safety risks to the public and railway staff due to their ground-level exposed position. The opportunity involves exploring how small batteries (approximately 100 kWh) could enable trains to operate through gaps in the 3rd rail, allowing removal of live 3rd rail sections at high-risk locations such as stations, level crossings, and junctions. Additional benefits include reduced maintenance needs at complex infrastructure points like switches and crossing junctions. Potential solutions must address capital and operational costs, required engineering and operational controls, and implementation strategies for both rolling stock and rail infrastructure. Respondents should provide market insights, technical feasibility assessments, cost considerations, and transition approaches for deploying battery technology across the DC railway network.