V/Line’s first solar powered level crossing is at Huntly on the Bendigo to Echuca rail line.
The project has been funded under the Victorian Coalition Government’s $47 million Fix Country Crossings Program.
Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder said late last month that using solar in such a way could be the perfect solution for providing energy to V/Line locations where mains power is costly to connect.
“Using solar power at remote locations is an exciting innovation that is not only environmentally friendly but could save taxpayers’ money,” Mr Mulder said.
“The installation of the solar technology at Huntly is expected to save around $25,000 and will cost less to run than mains electricity.”
The pilot installation will be monitored and if successful, solar power systems will be used for other remote locations.
“There are daily passenger trains on this line as well as freight trains, and this upgrade is an innovative way to improve the safety of local residents and visitors to the region,” said Liberal candidate for Bendigo East Greg Bickley.
“This is a very practical solution to a costly problem that is great for the environment, with the savings to enable other investments in regional rail.”
Powered by 18 solar panels, the overall cost was just shy of $100 000; which included the signal hut, solar generator and battery energy storage system according to Railway Gazette.
Dozens of Australians lose their lives each year in level crossing accidents. Such incidents have been identified as one of the most serious safety issues faced by the rail system in Australia. According to the Independent Transport Safety Regulator, level crossing incidents accounted for approximately 30% of rail related fatalities between 2006 and 2011.
In 2007, Dr Eric Wigglesworth of Monash University in Melbourne said two-thirds of Australia’s 9000 level crossings had no warning systems and recommended the use of solar.
Image source: Railway Gazette.
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