Energy saving strategies in Mass Rapid Transit systems

The energy cost accounts for a very high proportion of the operating cost of Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems and energy price continues to rise. Therefore, the energy cost of MRT systems will continue to increase. If some energy saving strategies are implemented, operating cost and energy consumption of MRT systems can be greatly reduced. This study analyzes the optimal schedule, regenerative taper voltage adjustment and no-load voltage adjustment of traction substations to determine energy saving strategies. A case study of a Taipei MRT line, under different operating conditions is analyzed. This research adopts commercial railway system software to simulate the operation of the Taipei MRT line. Regenerative braking energy and some other conditions for energy saving strategies are simulated. Energy saving effects are estimated to show the achievement of operational cost savings.