Conductor is looking at how renewable energy could be plugged directly into Traction Bulk Supply Points, the high-capacity connections that keep trains moving. With around 20 of these across UK Power Networks’ area, adding renewables could ease pressure on the grid, shift rail demand away from peak times, and free up valuable capacity.
What is the project about?
Traction Bulk Supply Points (BSPs) are high-capacity grid connections built to handle peak demand on the rail traction system. However, because rail power use is highly variable and ‘peaky,’ much of this capacity often goes underused. Conductor is exploring how installing battery storage at BSPs, combined with updated connection agreements that allow two-way, dynamic power flows, could shift rail energy demand away from peak times and unlock valuable capacity on the network.
How we’re doing it
The project will begin with a review of previous studies and projects, both in the UK and internationally, to capture key learnings. The team will then assess the opportunities and barriers to connecting behind-the-meter generation and storage. Conductor will also review grid connection characteristics and requirements, before producing a cost–benefit analysis and a stakeholder map to guide future phases.
What makes it innovative
Conductor is innovative in its aim to transform currently inflexible assets into sources of dynamic flexibility. By integrating renewable energy solutions into the UK’s railway system, it will provide greater flexibility to the electricity distribution network, support regional balancing of supply and demand, and contribute to achieving net-zero goals.
What we’re learning
The objectives of Conductor are to demonstrate that installing battery storage at T-BSPs, combined with unlocking connection agreements for two-way dynamic flows, could:
shift rail energy demand away from peak periods;
unlock capacity for other customers;
support regional balancing of supply and demand;
meet unmet demand for flexibility services in constrained areas; and
expand the commercial potential of traction-connected generation by replacing curtailment with load shifting and export capability.
During the Discovery phase, the project will conduct a feasibility study to define the scale of the challenge, map stakeholders, develop a framework to assess the value of potential solutions and prepare stakeholders for the next stages of delivery.
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