Stations on Network Rail’s Wessex route in Hampshire and Surrey are being ‘rewired and relit’ to save as much as 25% in electricity.
A total of 32 stations in Hampshire and Surrey are to be rewired as part of a drive to replace old and inefficient electrical equipment and incandescent lights, with Worcester Park and Andover stations being the most recently completed.
Shawford and Weybridge stations, as well as South Western Railway’s depot in Bournemouth, have also benefited from the improvements. As well as being completely rewired, variable controls and automatic settings for the LED lighting have also been installed, helping to reduce electricity consumption by up to 25%.
The ‘Rewire, Relight’ programme, which aims to improve energy-efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of the stations estate, is due to be completed by the end of March 2024. It will mean improved lighting for passengers and rail staff on platforms, waiting rooms, canopies, toilets, footbridges, ticket offices and car parks.
Network Rail Wessex route director, Mark Killick, said: “People choosing to travel by train as opposed by car are already helping the environment and we’re working on making our mode of transport even better for the planet.
“The ‘Rewire, Relight’ project is helping to create more energy-efficient stations and, at the same time, improve the environment for passengers.”
Amelia Woodley, South Western Railway’s head of sustainability, said: “At SWR, we passionately believe that a better railway is a sustainable railway, and that’s why we’re determined to play our part in reducing harmful carbon emissions and combating climate change.
“On top of supporting the ‘Rewire, Relight’ programme, we are also in the process of replacing the lighting at our stations – amounting to around 16,500 bulbs in total. This work, which is set to reduce energy consumption significantly, is currently on course to be completed by the end of the year.”
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