MUCH of the Regio S-Bahn Donau-Iller network centred on Ulm in southern Germany is set to be electrified under plans revealed by the states of Bavaria and Baden Württemberg on February 8.
The project will support the electrification of main routes on the largely diesel-operated network while new stations and passenger service enhancements are also expected.
A jointly-commissioned cost:benefit analysis has proven to be extremely positive, with the state transport ministers saying that “the economic benefits are expected to be significantly higher than the estimated costs.” As a result, both states expect funding for network improvements will be available from the federal government via the Municipal Transport Financing Act (GVFG).
Key projects in the Regio S-Bahn Donau-Iller network enhancement programme include:
electrification of the 72.5km Ulm – Aalen “Brenzbahn” line. GVFG funding is expected to cover around two-thirds of the €450m cost. Baden-Württemberg, where most of the line is located, has agreed to fund the remainder, including contributions that would normally have been due from Bavaria, where only around 8km is located.
electrification of the 85km Iller Valley line to Kempten, south east of Ulm. Bavaria signed a contract with German Rail (DB) for design and planning work on February 8. The state is providing €41m towards electrification of the entire line and track doubling on 11km. This comprises the northernmost part of the route between Neu-Ulm and Senden and a shorter section further south between Kellmünz and Pless to allow trains to pass and frequencies to be increased.
electrification of the Senden – Weissenhorn branch. This is owned by Ulm utility company SWU. A planning and financing agreement was signed between Bavaria and SWU Verkehr on February 8.
All electrification will take place at the German standard voltage of 15kV ac.
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