21.04.17
RSSB push for ‘keener, leaner and greener’ energy use from industry
New guidelines on the energy use of non-traction activities by train companies could save the industry millions by making processes “keener, leaner and greener”.
In new recommendations published by the RSSB, it was stated that millions could be saved by changing the way non-traction energy (energy used in processes not involved with the running of trains), could save the industry large amounts of money.
Though most energy used by rail companies is encompassed by traction activities, 20% is taken up by non-traction, which includes the lighting and heating of stations and buildings as well as the running of IT systems.
The RSSB pointed to Network Rail as an example of how much money could potentially be saved, saying that it had made annual savings of £1m by spending £389,000 to install an upgraded energy monitoring and invoicing system across the organisation.
Two major points are highlighted by the guidance, which encourages companies to be: “leaner” through their energy conservation, “keener” by finding savings from more efficient production and consumption of energy, and “greener” by incorporating renewable energy sources into their day-to-day working processes.
The recent guidelines walk organisations through the process of targeting opportunities to deliver more efficient energy solutions, from planning to delivery.
Michelle Papayannakos, RSSB senior sustainable development specialist, said: “We hope the industry appreciates the significant opportunities both to generate savings and to lessen their impact on the environment.
“The potential savings are substantial yet many of the solutions suggested are inexpensive to implement and pay for themselves quickly.”
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