The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed news today that Sydney’s train network will transition to net zero after confirming a new renewable energy deal.

ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie said the move highlighted the rail industry’s commitment to supporting the decarbonisation of the transport sector.

“This is an important step as part of NSW’s path to net zero and confirms the rail industry will be a key part of this transition,” Ms Wilkie said.

“We are pleased to see the new energy deal is complemented by a commitment to reduce energy consumption and further test solutions to support the network’s net zero future over the long term.”

Ms Wilkie said the rail industry had an important role to play in supporting net zero targets set by jurisdictions across Australia.

“Greater use of rail as part of a sustainable, integrated transport network will be crucial to supporting the achievement of our net zero future,” Ms Wilkie said.

She said the move to renewable energy reflected industry efforts to further embed sustainability across their operations.

“We welcome the decision to fast track Sydney Trains’ move to green energy,” Ms Wilkie said.

“This is an important step forward and shows real leadership within the rail industry.”

The NSW Government had previously committed to moving the train network to green energy by 2025.

Ms Wilkie said the ARA was continuing to work with its members to implement its sustainability strategy and share best practice insights across the industry.

The ARA has partnered with Roads Australia and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council to identify opportunities to accelerate decarbonisation across the transport asset lifecycle.

The ARA is also developing an issues paper on rail’s contribution to Australia’s path to net zero, which is expected to be released in the coming months.

ENDS