Railways funnel enormous sums into advanced grid innovation.
Just on the brink of the federal election, Deutsche Bahn has granted a massive contract worth billions of euros for the long-term digitalization of its railway network. This contract centers around advancements in signaling technology, specifically the European Train Control System (ETCS), and control and operating systems. The main players in this gigantic undertaking are MerMec Deutschland, Hitachi Rail Deutschland, Alstom, Siemens Mobility, and Leonhard Weiss. The project is slated to run till 2032.
Germany's outdated railway network, spanning approximately 33,000 kilometers, and ageing signaling boxes are due for a serious makeover. Deutsche Bahn is spearheading a monumental modernization program, which includes temporary track closures and updated control and safety technology in the signaling boxes.
The award and contract model for this project come with a novel twist, as per Deutsche Bahn. This involves main contractors undertaking the project, with Deutsche Bahn outlining specific orders. This change is expected to drastically reduce the usual eight-year implementation timeline for planning, construction, and commissioning, to a few years instead.
The financial backing for these modernization projects remains uncertain, with the decision on funds resting with the new federal government. The railway network's refurbishment and new construction will primarily be funded by the federal government.
If the Union secures the chancellorship, under potential Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Deutsche Bahn could undergo a significant transformation. The Union's proposal is to dismantle the company's operations and infrastructure, ultimately disbanding Bahn and its numerous subsidiaries and affiliated companies. The railway network would then be transferred to a federal, government-owned GmbH, similar to the autobahn. The SPD, however, has rejected this proposition.
While Deutsche Bahn pursues digitalization, the UK is moving in a different direction. The passenger rail franchising system, inspired by the privatization model, has been abolished in Britain. Rail contracts are now set to transition into government control in 2025. The Labour government has announced plans to gradually phase out franchises and bring train operating companies under public ownership, with the process expected to be completed by October 2027.
[1] Deutsche Bahn and Siemens partner to modernize rail infrastructure[2] Deutsche Bahn joins EU Rail Innovation Program[3] Future of UK Rail Franchising: Abolition and Renationalization[4] Alstom and Deutsche Bahn sign long-term agreement for digitalization of rail network[5] Deutsche Bahn awards digital interlocking technology contract to Alstom
The digitalization of Deutsche Bahn's railway network, worth billions of euros, includes main contractors like MerMec Deutschland, Hitachi Rail Deutschland, Alstom, Siemens Mobility, and Leonhard Weiss, focusing on advancements in signaling technology and control systems.
This significant modernization program for Germany's outdated railway network, covering approximately 33,000 kilometers, includes temporary track closures and updates to control and safety technology in the signaling boxes.
