A study of smart grids for railways

Cho, Sunghee (2018). A study of smart grids for railways. University of Birmingham. M.Phil.

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Abstract

The smart grid is a next-generation electric power supply grid in which IT technologies are applied to optimise energy efficiency through the exchange of power information between suppliers and consumers in real time. To date, smart grid research has been focussed on the home and domestic sectors, while little progress has been made in developing smart grids for railways. This likely stems from the complexity of electric railway traction systems, which must supply multiple electrical trains with variable electrical loads depending on varying combinations of trains and train operation requirements including maintaining constant speed and reducing speed. Therefore, this thesis proposes to assess the hypothesis that renewable energy, which is one of the representative technologies used in smart grids, can in fact be applied in railway traction power systems.

This thesis is also an oriented study that provides guidance in the advance planning of grid systems to be implemented in the near future. In addition to contributions to the development of railway traction systems, it is also hoped that the results will help in intensifying the international competitiveness of railways in terms of greenhouse gas reduction and the reduction of energy imports.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Phil.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Phil.

Supervisor(s):