In the heart of Europe, where the wheels of industry and commerce grind ceaselessly, a silent revolution is taking place. Not in the factories or the boardrooms, but on the railway lines that crisscross the continent. As the European Green Deal policy drives the push for sustainable transport, electrified railways have emerged as the frontrunners, meeting the stringent requirements of eco-friendly mass transit. But with this shift comes a complex challenge: how to integrate new railway lines with existing networks, particularly in countries like Poland, where a vast network is powered by a 3 kV DC system.
Enter Adam Szeląg, a researcher from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the Warsaw University of Technology. In a groundbreaking study published in the Archives of Transport (or “Archiwum Transportu” in Polish), Szeląg proposes a novel approach to tackle this very issue. His research focuses on the application of multi-criteria analysis (MCA) to help decision-makers choose between the existing 3 kV DC system and the newer 25 kV AC system for new railway lines.
“The problem is not just about choosing between AC and DC,” Szeląg explains. “It’s about considering a multitude of factors, from economic aspects to non-economic criteria, and making a decision that is optimal for a specific line and its context.”
The novelty of Szeląg’s research lies in its identification and scaling of criteria for MCA to support multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) in the energy sector. This is particularly relevant in areas with densely spread existing railway lines supplied by a 3 kV DC system, like Poland.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. As Szeląg points out, “The choice of power supply system can have a substantial impact on the commercial viability of a railway line.” By providing a structured approach to decision-making, MCA can help stakeholders make informed choices that balance economic and non-economic factors, ultimately shaping the future of railway electrification.
Moreover, the research underscores the importance of considering specific circumstances, such as grid network availability, construction time, and the usage of existing infrastructure. This holistic approach could pave the way for more sustainable and efficient railway networks, aligning with the broader goals of the European Green Deal.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable transport, Szeląg’s research offers a timely and valuable contribution. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, it provides a practical tool for decision-makers navigating the complex landscape of railway electrification.
In the words of Szeląg, “This is not just about choosing between AC and DC. It’s about making the right choice for the right line, at the right time.” And in doing so, shaping the future of railway electrification in Europe and beyond.