Solar Powered Train Market Size Worth $3 Billion By 2030: IndustryARC

The Global Solar Powered Train Market size is predicted to reach $3 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period 2023-2030 according to the latest market research report published by IndustryARC. Surging  demand for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation options, rising consumer preference for reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and growing government support for renewable energy adoption in the rail sector are key factors propelling the solar powered train market growth finds IndustryARC in its recent report, titled “Solar Powered Train Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type [Full Solar Powered train, Semi Solar Powered train], By Operating Speed [Below 100 Kmph, 100-200 Kmph, Above 200 Kmph], By Component [Solar Panels, Energy Storage Systems, Propulsion Systems, Auxiliary Power Systems, Others], By Battery Technology [Gel Tubular, Valve Regulated Lead Acid, Lithium-ion, Conventional Lead Acid], By Train Type [Metros, Light rail, Trams, Others], By Panel Location [Roof Mounted, On-track, Near track] By Application [Passenger, Freight], By Region and Segment Forecasts, 2023–2030”

Europe has reported the highest share with over 32% of total in 2022.  Countries such as Germany are actively deploying hybrid locomotives and working to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. The German region of Baden-Württemberg has integrated over 50 hybrid shunting locomotives. Solar panels on trains align with Europe's sustainability initiatives.

Europe possesses the extensive rail infrastructure needed to support integration of solar technology on locomotives. According to the International Union of Railways, Europe accounts for 21% of global rail activity. Availability of supporting infrastructure drives market growth. Also, presence of major rail companies like DB Schenker, SNCF, and Eurostar provides established customer base for solar train solutions. Companies are focused on meeting emissions targets through renewable energy trains.

Though the Asia Pacific region may see faster growth rates from markets like China and Japan, Europe is expected to maintain the dominant market share through the forecast timeline based on favourable government policies, infrastructure readiness, and demand from major rail operators.

In the Solar Powered Train Market analysis, the Passenger Train segment is estimated to grow with the highest CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period. The passenger train segment will register the highest CAGR in the solar powered train market through 2030 according to projections by market research firm Mordor Intelligence. Urbanization and large-scale rail electrification projects focused on commuter routes will drive adoption.

For instance, Indian Railways so far has 60 passenger coaches equipped with solar panel for meeting its light and fan power requirements which will continue to grow in coming years. This project aims to make India's expansive passenger rail network more energy efficient by harnessing solar power. Initiatives like this spotlight major opportunities for solar to power commuter and metro trains as countries seek to provide low-emission public transit options.

To further optimize energy efficiency, some trains are adopting hybrid systems that combine multiple renewable energy sources. According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), hybrid trains that integrate solar and wind energy systems have shown an increase in overall energy output by up to 25% compared to purely solar-powered trains. This hybrid approach maximizes the utilization of renewable energy, making the trains more self-sufficient and reducing their reliance on traditional fossil fuels.

Solar trains provide substantial energy efficiency and cost savings compared to conventional diesel trains. Solar rail networks can decrease electricity consumption by up to 70%, according to industry estimates. Lower energy usage directly reduces operational expenses, with solar systems typically having payback periods of less than 10 years. Additionally, solar trains eliminate fuel costs associated with diesel engines. The improved efficiency and cost profile provided by solar power is driving railway operators to adopt this renewable energy solution.

Recent efficiency improvements in solar technology are making adoption more feasible and advantageous. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), solar panel efficiency has increased 0.5-1% annually, with modern panels reaching over 20% efficiency. This makes them more effective at generating electricity. Additionally, engineers have optimized panel integration into train and station design to maximize energy capture. With enhanced efficiency, solar trains can now provide a sizeable portion of a rail system's electricity needs, catalyzing adoption globally.

Countries like Germany are actively deploying hybrid locomotives and working to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. In 2023, SNFC Voyageurs a state-owned subsidiary of the French National Railway Company aims to have 40–50% of the rail network’s electricity coming from solar power by 2026.

Existing extensive rail infrastructure also makes adoption easier in Europe versus emerging markets. Major European operators like Deutsche Bahn are aggressively adopting solar trains, with over 80% of Deutsche Bahn's fleet expected to run on renewable energy by 2030 according to company data.

Urban populations are projected to grow significantly in coming decades, with the UN estimating 68% of people will live in cities by 2050. This rapid urbanization is driving major expansion of metro systems and light rail networks to serve mobility needs. For example, China aims to double its urban rail network by 2035 as part of a $117.4 billion investment plan. Adopting solar power enables these projects to provide low-emission public transit.

Advancing Battery Storage Capabilities

Ongoing improvements in energy storage technology are increasing capacity to capture and utilize solar power. According to data from BloombergNEF, the cost of lithium-ion batteries, the most common energy storage technology, has decreased by approximately 85% over the past decade. This reduction in cost has made energy storage systems more accessible and affordable for implementing solar-powered trains.

Many governments have enacted net zero emissions pledges, driving demand for renewable energy trains. The EU aims to reduce transport emissions 90% by 2050. India is targeting net zero railway carbon emissions by 2030. These commitments incentivize railways to transition to solar power as a clean energy solution. For example, Siemens Mobility was recently awarded UK government contracts to develop solar power solutions for railways, including testing solar energy to directly power trains on the East Coast Mainline in 2023. This supports the UK's decarbonization goals.

• Solar Powered Train Market Size and Forecast 

• Solar Powered Train Market Trends

• Solar Powered Train Market Analysis by Product Type

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2023-2030

• Value Chain analysis of key stake holders

• Detailed analysis of market drivers and opportunities during the forecast period

• Solar Powered Train Market size estimation and forecast

• Analysis and predictions on end users’ behavior and upcoming trends 

• Competitive landscape and Vendor market analysis including offerings, developments, and financials

• Comprehensive analysis of challenges and constraints in the Solar Powered Train Market

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the solar powered train market, causing project delays and supply chain disruptions due to lockdowns and labour shortages. Governments focused spending on pandemic response, pausing investments in new rail projects. However, strengthening environmental regulations and rising demand for sustainable transit during the pandemic have driven a swift market rebound. Several major investments in electrified and solar rail have been announced as part of economic recovery efforts.

Russia was a major supplier of raw materials like silicon for solar panels used in trains. The conflict has caused shortages and price increases for these key components. Shipping and logistics challenges related to the war have also emerged. While companies have diversified supplier networks, ongoing materials shortages continue challenging the market, potentially slowing short-term growth.

The Global Solar Powered Train Market is fragmented with several global and regional companies operating with expansive manufacturing capabilities and extensive distribution networks. The key companies profiled are listed below:

• Byron Bay Railroad Company

• Riding Sunbeams

• Greenrail

• Alstom SA

• Toshiba Corporation 

• Stadler Rail AG

• Central Electronics

• Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd.

• China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC)

• Trina Solar

• Thales Group

• Siemens AG

• Solar World

• Bankset Energy

IndustryARC primarily focuses on Market Research and Consulting Services specific to Cutting Edge Technologies and Newer Application segments of the market. The company’s Custom Research Services are designed to provide insights into the constant flux in the global demand-supply gap of markets.  

IndustryARC’s goal is to provide the right information required by the stakeholder at the right point in time, in a format which assists an intelligent and informed decision-making process.

Mr. Venkat Reddy

IndustryARC

Email: [email protected]

USA: (+1) 518-282-4727

Web: https://www.industryarc.com

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