SAN CARLOS, Calif. — Caltrain’s electrified equipment is performing far more efficiently than expected, the agency announced at its month board meeting, which could result in $3 million annually in electric savings.
The regenerative braking on Caltrain’s Stadler trainsets is sending approximately 23% of the energy consumed by the system. Electric use is averaging 207 megawatt-hours on weekdays and 175 MwH on weekends, which has led the operator to revise its estimated electric costs from $19.5 million to $16.5 million annually. Along with an expected $6 million in energy credits from the California Air Resources Board’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard program, the first year of electrification is expected to have lower fuel costs than the previous diesel service.
“Caltrain is running its service on 100% renewable energy and is returning nearly a quarter of that energy to the grid,” Michelle Bouchard, Caltrain executive director, said in a press release. “The new electric fleet is delivering on its promise of state-of-the-art service, living up to our mission of providing sustainable transportation that enhances quality of life for everyone.”
Someone forecasted a 15% higher electric rate that practice didn’t need.
Are they going to reduce the fares by 15% as well? Just curious.
Surprised they didn’t wait a full year of use before making the decision. The savings might decline over time and use. I guess we will see.
I see your point, those $3mil “savings” are based on an exaggeration.
The Stadler employees who built these in Salt Lake City say “thank you…”
Modern blended braking always uses regen first, adding air only as necessary. Not an engineer’s choice.
Is Caltrain using blended braking? If so, is it similar or the same as Amtrak’s schedule as Caltrain is going to have much more slowing per mile than Amtrak?
Hmmmm. 100% renewable energy, huh. Guess the sun always shines and winds always blow. Or there are lots and lots of batteries somewhere.
I’m not sure what’s more amazing: that they say this with a straight face or that anyone believes it.
Is it the Stadler equipment or just plain operating procedures? How much regenerative braking is being used and how much regular braking?.