Energy Optimisation

We view the optimisation of energy as a continual process for improvement implemented through a framework of structured and questioning investigation. In practice, this has proven to be the optimum methodology to achieve our long-term goal of improved efficiency, lower costs and operational excellence.

Traction and air-conditioning are the two major components of our electricity consumption. Our approach to managing the costs is to ask continually how and where we use electricity. In addressing the moving trains and the supporting infrastructure for electricity consumption, we have devised a sophisticated automatic control system that drives trains at optimum energy usage through avoidance of unnecessary acceleration and deceleration of train speed. Individual cars are also managed for load and air-conditioning needs with electricity expenditure automatically altered by a weight cell continuously measuring passenger use. Most recently, we introduced automated door opening for station arrival which, through a time-saving factor measured in seconds, reduces electricity demand across the moving system. To complement these measures, traction energy use has steadily decreased over time on a per train basis with the installation of regenerative braking systems. As a consequence, we are continually changing and improving the measurement of our traction energy on an annual basis.

The completion of the platform screen doors retrofit and the improvement of the environmental control mode at stations during winter months have created substantial savings in the air-conditioning of the underground stations. Other rail technologies and efficiencies are continually explored for their benefits against costs in long-term usage such as replacement of motor alternator sets with static inverters on trains.