High-Speed Trains Power Experimental Wind Turbines in UK Trial

Rail company LNER has installed three experimental wind turbines alongside the East Coast Main Line at Hitachi Rail’s Craigentinny depot in Edinburgh. The six-foot-tall devices, built from upcycled materials, are designed to capture the turbulent air displaced by passing high-speed trains and convert it into electricity.

Named "Windiana Jones", "Sir Spins-a-lot" and "AC Breezy", the turbines require no grid connection and can be deployed on unused railway land close to the tracks. The company said a single turbine can generate enough energy to power a third of a small station's lighting needs, four CCTV cameras, or run two passenger information screens.

At this stage the electricity produced will be measured and used to power a range of devices so that operators can assess the technology's potential. The trial is expected to run for six months.

The turbines are the first to operate next to a UK main line. According to the company, the project could lead to wider deployment of the technology across Britain's rail network. The installation was completed in partnership with clean energy infrastructure firm Treeva.

The project originated from the Future Labs rail industry innovation scheme, which pairs rail operators with technology start-ups. Treeva, a participant in the programme, adapted its equipment for use in rail environments. A company spokesperson said the goal is to transform the way transport infrastructure is powered.

2019 a separate initiative called Riding Sunbeams installed a solar array at Aldershot to supply power for passing trains. The project has been described as a success. Network Rail announced last year that it was seeking additional suppliers for similar solar installations along train lines.