| UK Power Reserve (UKPR) has energised Network
Rail’s Old Dalby test track in Melton Mowbray – the company’s test site for the
next generation of the UK’s trains. This energy partnership will reduce pressure
on the National Grid at peak times by giving the track its own source of power
and providing security of supply for Britain’s trains to be tested on home soil.
UKPR is the leading developer and operator of smart, flexible power generation in the country. Headquartered in Solihull, the company plays a crucial role in supporting National Grid by delivering electricity security of supply nationally and this role now extends to its partnership with Network Rail. The partnership provides an enduring, cost-effective solution for the continued testing of new stock, including the Intercity Express Programme Hitachi Javelin-inspired trains as well as next generation of London Underground tube trains. UKPR’s embedded generation and network assets located at its site in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire are connected to the adjacent Network Rail Old Dalby Train Testing facility. During stress occasions on the electricity network, UKPR’s embedded generation assets are capable of delivering security of electricity supply to the facility and relieving the strain on the National Grid infrastructure. During occasions such as peak winter periods or system stress events including major plant failures or severe outages which constrain generation, Network Rail can import its electricity directly from UKPR‘s own embedded generation assets. This demand side response service relieves the National Grid network and ultimately will reduce the energy network costs for UK consumers. Tim Emrich, UKPR Chief Operating Officer, said: “UK Power Reserve is really pleased to be working with Network Rail through this partnership. Our company plays a vital role in delivering electricity security of supply in the UK, and we’re delighted to be able to support another critically important part of UK infrastructure. With the plans to expand the UK rail network over the next few decades it’s vitally important that the country has its own test site and we’re extremely proud to be a part of this.”
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