During its monthly Board of Directors meeting, Caltrain reported that the regenerative braking system on its new electric trains returns approximately 23% of the energy it consumes to the electric grid. This performance exceeds initial projections and aligns with Caltrain's commitment to sustainability.
Initially projected to cost about $19.5 million annually, Caltrain’s electricity expenses have been revised to $16.5 million, based on an average consumption of 207 MWh on weekdays and 175 MWh on weekends since the launch of electric service. Furthermore, Caltrain anticipates receiving approximately $6 million annually in energy credits from the California Air Resources Board’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard Program, leading to lower fuel costs in the first year of electric service than previous diesel operations.
Currently, the energy generated is being supplied to the grid free of charge, as there is no legal mandate for compensation.
“Caltrain is running its service on 100% renewable energy and is returning nearly a quarter of that energy to the grid,” stated Michelle Bouchard, Caltrain Executive Director. “The new electric fleet is delivering on its promise of state-of-the-art service, living up to our mission of providing sustainable transportation that enhances quality of life for everyone.”
