How to manage DC electric traction power supply systems in the future
This paper describes the characteristics of electrification systems implemented in Europe, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electric traction power supply systems (ETPSSs). It shows that, except for AC 15 kV 16.7 Hz networks, DC has historically been the dominant system, while alternating current (AC) at public grid frequency is a more recent development. Nevertheless, DC has also advantages, and migration projects from DC to AC are only justified in specific circumstances. The document provides detailed insights into the current situation in Europe.
This paper therefore aims to demonstrate that DC ETPSSs do have a future, and that a complete migration to AC is not always the optimal solution, especially when accounting for its cost.
| Author | UIC |
| ISBN | 978-2-7461-3517-8 |
| Pages | 24 |
Data sheet
- Language
- English
- Format
- Downloadable
- Edition
- Ed. no.1
- Edition date
- 01/09/2025
- Publication date
- 23/10/2025
- Page number
- 24
- Theme
- Energy Energie Information technology Technologie de l'information Interoperability Interopérabilité
- sku
- 5-25012E-PDF
- Reference
- 5-25012E
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