Commitment to Net Zero Emissions extended
Transport for NSW has extended its commitment to making its heavy rail network operations powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity into the next decade ensuring a greener transport future for all our rail customers, and for across the state.
Transport for NSW has signed a contract with Iberdrola Australia which will see Sydney Trains purchase renewable energy certificates from Iberdrola until the end of 2030 primarily sourced from the Avonlie Solar Farm under construction near Narrandera.
Sydney Trains Chief Executive Matt Longland said this agreement with Iberdrola is equivalent to 40 per cent of Sydney Trains renewable energy certificate needs, and in conjunction with its existing agreements with Red Energy, ensures that Sydney Trains remains at Net Zero emissions from electricity until December 2030.
“It means Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink stations, depot and trains will continue to be powered by renewables - adding five years to the current commitment,” Mr. Longland said.
“Achieving net zero emissions from electricity for the heavy rail network is a key component in Transport for NSW's goal of transitioning to a zero emissions public transport system.”
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Iberdrola Australia, Ross Rolfe, AO, said: “We are delighted to be helping Transport for NSW achieve its Net Zero targets. Transport for NSW is demonstrating to all industry that through innovation, efficiency gains and collaboration, the mobility sector can be progressively decarbonised.”
The NSW heavy rail network was the first in the country to transition to 100 per cent renewable energy back in July 2021. Sydney Trains has also committed to reducing energy consumption by at least 10 per cent by 2025, through innovative energy efficiency initiatives in train operations, maximising energy recovery from regenerative breaking, onsite solar energy generation, and lighting upgrades.
Transport for NSW will work closely with energy market participants over the coming years to ensure emerging loads are also supplied from renewable energy sources such as the Zero Emissions Buses.