WIRELESS ELECTRIC PROPULSION LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEMS IN SPAIN

Abstract

A frequent criticism of new light rail transit systems is the negative visual impact of overhead 28 power lines (catenary). Vehicle manufacturers have recognized this problem and developed 29 systems that allow trams to operate without catenary. There are three main approaches: 30 providing electricity from ground level systems, storing energy on-board the vehicle, and 31 generating power on-board the vehicle.In most cities where alternatives to catenary power 32 lines have been implemented they are only implemented on particularly sensitive sections of 33 the routes. This has been the case in Spain where three of 11new light rail systems have 34 adopted a hybrid electrification system using on-board energy storage. Spain’s experience 35 with hybrid electrification provides a good case study of the technology. 36 This paper summarizes light rail system development in Spain. It focuses on 37 comparing LRT systems that use hybrid electrification versus those that do not. The research 38 confirms, consistent with previous research, that the costs for systems using hybrid 39 electrification are higher than for those using catenarypower lines. The research also shows 40 that increased streetscape redevelopment – often required in places where visual impacts need 41 to be addressed with hybrid electrification – are a key driver of these increased costs.Finally, 42 an interview with the operator managers of the 3 LRT systems that use hybrid electrification 43 was carried out to understand key operational differences between the two systems.