These 7 Countries Have the Most Electrified Railway Systems in Europe

The European Union has long been a leader in the push for global sustainability. Railway electrification has been an integral part of their efforts. Today, nearly 60% of Europe’s railway lines are electrified, leading toward better energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and a significant reduction in environmental impact across the continent.

Electrified railways are essential in addressing several challenges, including stringent environmental regulations, rising fossil fuel costs, and the demand for faster, more reliable train services. For instance, whereas diesel-powered trains are about 30% efficient, electric trains are 95% efficient. 

Technological advancements have made rail electrification more feasible and cost-effective. High-speed rail corridors, such as those connecting major European cities, rely heavily on electrified lines, which can handle trains running at speeds exceeding 300 km/h. These electrified networks are made even more efficient by drawing on renewable energy sources, which are simultaneously proliferating across Europe.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The initial investment in infrastructure, ensuring a stable power supply, and integrating new systems with existing networks are significant hurdles. Yet, with countries like Luxembourg and Belgium leading the way, Europe’s rail electrification efforts continue to progress, positioning the continent as a global leader in sustainable transport.

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In this piece, we’ll examine the most recently available data (as of 2022) to determine which European countries have the greatest percentage of their total railway electrified.