The decision to switch from DC to AC necessitated the use of rakes that were compatible to the new power system. As a result, WR had to phase out all the DC-compatible rakes in favour of those that can ply on dual AC-DC system. As of now, 83 (77 Siemens and 6 Alstom) AC-DC Electrical Multiple Unit (EMU) rakes are in operation.
Of these, 66 rakes have been registered under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Sharat Chandrayan, Chief Public Relations Officer, WR said, "It is estimated that these rakes will reduce overall emission of CO{-2} by 10,278 tonne. Carbon credits accrued to WR every year due to this will be approximately Rs 2 crore. Eleven more rakes are proposed to be registered under the UNFCCC, and their benefits on the carbon credits front will accrue proportionately in future." The DC-AC rakes are energy-efficient as they have regenerative braking, where on application of brakes, the traction motor works like a generator and converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. The generated energy is fed back to the overhead equipment and used by other trains running on the section.
Lower electricity consumption will mean reduced fuel consumption in power plants and will automatically lead to reduced carbon dioxide emissions. DC-AC EMU rakes consume 30% less energy than conventional DC rakes. , with a DC unit (three-car) consuming 4.94 kwh/km and a DC-AC unit (3-car) consuming 3.46 kwh/km. WR claimed substantial gains have been achieved after introduction of these rakes into passenger service. Read the full report here.
Source: Manthan K Mehta, TNN, Mumbai.
