The Challenge:

Locomotive drivers had to regularly start the diesel engine, or attach a mains battery charger to recharge its flat batteries if the locomotive was not used for several weeks.

The Solution:

The first installation in Australia of solar panels on a working locomotive. A reference PV cell and data logging supplied by Solar4RVs to enable measurement of solar energy even when batteries are fully charged.

Solar charging reduced diesel consumption by avoiding unnecessary main engine start-ups, extended battery life due to multi-stage charging, and improved productivity – the locomotive was ready to go when needed.

The Next Steps:

1. Applying solar energy to suitable applications.

2. Increasing application of electric propulsion to locomotives to reduce emissions and eliminate diesel fuel costs, particularly where rail networks are already electrified.