Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has achieved a significant success in modernising Ireland’s rail infrastructure. The company has completed the installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 on the Dundalk to Greystones route, bringing a new breath of life to Ireland’s railways in terms of safety and efficiency. This article will explore the details of Alstom’s significant success and its contribution to Ireland’s sustainable transport network.
Safety and Efficiency Improvement in 120km Dundalk-Greystones Area
The ETCS Level 120 installation on the Dundalk to Greystones route, covering approximately 1 kilometres, is said to make the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) suburban network and surrounding railways safer and more efficient. The system brings new safety features and improved interoperability, bringing rail transport in the region in line with the demands of the digital age.
The project demonstrates Alstom’s technical expertise and commitment. “This groundbreaking achievement lays the foundations for the future of Ireland’s railways, delivering safer, smarter and greener transport for passengers,” said Piers Wood, Managing Director of Alstom Ireland, highlighting the importance they place on projects to improve rail safety and efficiency in Ireland.
Implementation Process and Technological Details of ETCS Level 1
ETCS is a train control standard that digitises railway systems and works with in-cab equipment that can monitor train movements. The project between Dundalk and Greystones uses information from more than 1.200 rail bales. In addition, more than 450 Micro Encoder lineside electronic units (LEUs) have been fitted to legacy equipment, improving safety and minimising disruption.
All equipment was configured, installed and tested between October 2024 and November 2024. Safety measures were maintained at the highest level and the project was successfully completed without any lost time incidents (LTIs). This project stands out as one of the largest Level 1 ETCS installations in Europe.
Contributions of the New Generation Train to Transport Needs in Ireland
Alstom has signed a ten-year framework agreement with Irish Rail to produce 750 new suburban trains under the DART+ programme. This includes an order for 37 five-car X'trapolis trains. 31 of these trains will be built as battery electric multiple units (BEMUs), a first for Ireland, while the other six will be Electric Multiple Units (EMUs).
These new generation trains will take a significant step towards environmentally friendly transport by improving the sustainability of rail in Ireland. Production is underway at Alstom’s Chorzów facility near Katowice, Poland. The first train is expected to arrive in Dublin in November 2024 and enter service in 2025.
The DART+ Programme and Ireland's Sustainable Transport Future
DART+ is a significant investment that will double the capacity and triple the electrification rate of the Greater Dublin network, Ireland’s most populous commuter area. The programme aims to improve sustainable transport and quality of life in the capital city of Dublin and surrounding counties.
With Alstom’s contribution, Ireland’s rail network will become smarter, safer and more environmentally friendly. DART+ will play a key role at the heart of Ireland’s sustainable transport network, making a significant contribution to the digitalisation of Ireland’s transport infrastructure.
Modern and Sustainable Rail Network in Ireland
Alstom’s successful completion of the ETCS Level 1 installation between Dundalk and Greystones is a significant milestone in Ireland’s railway modernisation. This project will help Ireland achieve its sustainable transport goals, while making the region’s railway safer and more efficient. Alstom’s contribution to this project has been recognised as a key step in shaping Ireland’s future rail transport.
