ScotRail has partnered with UK-based company, Optimise AI, to create digital twins of all its stations and depots to help reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

The technology, delivered by Optimise AI, monitors energy usage and carbon emissions in real time, which allows ScotRail to identify opportunities for reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency across Scotland’s Railway.

The tool allows the train operator to assess performance of its locations against the UK Energy Performance Certification standard. This benchmarking provides a clear understanding of how stations and depots perform relative to common standards.

Developed at Cardiff University, the tool’s algorithm studies utility performance data from comparable buildings to identify specific measures that can reduce consumption, improve efficiency, and save money.

By leveraging this data-driven approach, ScotRail can make informed decisions about the type of investment needed to achieve cost savings and eliminate carbon emissions from its operations.

The train operator is working to further develop the capabilities of the Optimise AI tool, including identifying potential cost savings from energy efficiency measures and mapping out a clear route to net zero by eliminating fossil fuel use.

ScotRail has also chosen to remain with a 100% UK renewable electricity energy tariff which will result in a reduction in electricity costs starting in the new year.

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“We’re excited to partner with Optimise AI on this groundbreaking initiative,” David Lister, ScotRail safety, sustainability, and asset director, said.

“Reducing our carbon footprint and improving energy efficiency is a top priority for ScotRail.

“By using digital twins, we can gain a deeper understanding of our energy use and take meaningful steps to reduce emissions across all our stations and depots.

“This partnership, combined with our move to 100 per cent UK renewable energy for our stations and depots, will help us build a greener future for Scotland’s Railway.”