The National Grid, the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales, is playing a crucial role in the decarbonisation of rail and aviation industries. The National Grid's components - National Grid Electricity Transmission and National Grid Electricity Distribution - have significant relevance to railway and aviation operations.

The rollout of electrified trains and the increase in electrification of ground operations within airports has created a greater demand for distribution networks. The National Grid is building a network ready for future net-zero demand, ensuring that cables and substations are equipped for a decarbonised future, and are able to provide the capacity required for low carbon technologies and mass electrification.

The National Grid Electricity Transmission has been working with Network Rail to decarbonise its rail network. The rollout of electric trains depends on an upgrade of the transmission network to allow the connection of electrified rail lines. Similarly, in support of Network Rail's electrification of the Midland Main Line, a new substation at Braybrooke in Leicestershire will provide an interface between the railway and the National Grid's transmission network. Meanwhile, National Grid cooperates with airport operators to learn more about their energy capacity needs to electrify more of their on-ground operations. The National Grid is preparing for the future of transport, accommodating future demands arising from the decarbonisation of aircraft, including hydrogen or electric planes.

Source: railway-technology.com