In terms of electrification of the railway network, Germany lags behind other European countries. This is based on the statement of the non-profit transportation alliance AllianzproSchiene, which pointed out that in terms of 61% electrification rate, Germany lags behind other European countries such as Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands and Sweden, the latter has reached 70-100%.

In addition, the non-profit organization pointed out that the progress of electrification in Germany is slower than the European Union (EU) average. Data from AllianzproSchiene shows that Germany only increased the power line rail ratio by 2 percentage points between 2009 and 2019, while the EU's average level was 4 percentage points. The organization pointed out that if Germany wants to become a leader in electric vehicles, the next federal government must accelerate the electrification of its rail network.

Dirk Flege, Managing Director of AllianzproSchiene, said: “Other countries are totally dependent on climate-friendly electric vehicles for rail transportation. Germany is hesitant.” The future federal government must finally move from talk to action. In their exploratory document, SPD, Greens and FDP pledged to accelerate infrastructure investment. When building new overhead lines on German orbit, they must show that they are taking this seriously. "

The road to energy transition in Germany

Flagg emphasized the need to simplify planning laws so that Germany can speed up the electrification of its rail network. He pointed out that the legislature must make it clear that equipping existing railway lines with power lines is not a new construction and therefore does not require a complete plan approval process. In addition, he stated that the next coalition must adhere to the old federal government’s goal of increasing electrification to 70% by 2025. Keywords: engineering news, engineering construction

Dirk Flege, Managing Director of AllianzproSchiene, said: "Although the pace has been slow in recent years, this is still possible if there is the necessary political will. For 2030, the alliance should also set a new 75% target. For the remaining routes without overhead lines , The plan to promote hydrogen and battery trains can shorten the path to complete carbon dioxide-free railway transportation. "Farewell to diesel engines are easier, faster, and less labor-saving on railways than on roads. In addition, more electrification will make the railway network more efficient and flexible. If you want to promote climate protection quickly, there is no way to bypass the continued expansion of railway electric vehicles. "Editor/Xing Wentao