PRORAIL completed its first large-scale installation of Icesolution geothermal point heaters in sidings at Lelystad during December.
Developed by Holland Rail Consult and Volker Stevin Rail & Traffic, Icesolution uses heat extracted from the ground to prevent the build-up of ice (RG 8.03 p513). The heaters come on only when needed, giving an 80% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional heaters. The initial investment is higher than for conventional heaters, but ProRail expects to recover the costs within five years, and make significant savings over the 20-year life of Icesolution.
Holland Rail Consult, Netherlands
