Transport for Wales has achieved a significant milestone in the electrification of the South Wales Metro, with overhead wires on the Rhymney railway line now switched on.
This marks a major step forward in modernising the region’s rail network, following the completion of engineering work on the 25km stretch between Caerphilly and Rhymney. The final section along the Cardiff Bay line is scheduled for electrification in early 2026.
Electrifying the upper Rhymney line will enable TfW to introduce tri-mode trains – capable of running on electric, diesel, and battery power – replacing the last of the legacy diesel rolling stock. This upgrade will deliver cleaner, greener, and more reliable services for passengers across South Wales.
Transport for Wales’ Chief Infrastructure Officer, Dan Tipper, said:
“The electrification of the Upper Rhymney line has been made possible by eight months of intensive work by our infrastructure teams, including installing 903 steel structures supporting over 33km of overhead wires and laying 30km of high-voltage cable. I’d like to thank our teams for working around the clock to achieve this major project milestone”
“We would also like to thank our local communities for their patience as this transformation work was carried out through the day and night, as well as during disruptive railway closures over the Easter and Summer holidays.”
TfW also is reminding the public that trespassing on railway lines is illegal and extremely dangerous, particularly on electrified routes carrying 25,000 volts. Through its No Second Chances safety campaign, TfW continues to raise awareness of the risks among young people across the Valleys. Working with education provider Bollo, TfW expects to reach over 42,000 students with railway safety sessions by the end of 2025.
The electrification of the Rhymney line is a key part of the South Wales Metro project, which aims to transform connectivity, reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable travel across the region.
Image credit: iStock
