Solar PV linked directly to the rail system could supply a significant part of the system’s power needs, according to a new report – Riding Sunbeams – supported by 10:10, Imperial College, Innovate UK and Community Energy England.

The researchers found that solar PV was technically a good fit for rail supplies in areas where “third rail” direct current was used. It could meet a tenth of the system’s power needs in those areas when used with storage to feed power in as trains pass.