GETLINK: The Channel Tunnel is at the forefront of rail power technology and is increasing its transport capacity

Getlink announces that Eurotunnel has commissioned the world’s most powerful static compensator (VSC technology) connected to a railway electrical traction system, the STATCOM. This technology developed by GE, and in collaboration with Eurostar, is the result of a €45 million investment[1] and 5 years of research. Eurotunnel will double the reactive compensation power in the Channel Tunnel and improve the stability of its electrical network, particularly during peak periods.

Eurotunnel will be able to run up to 16 latest generation trains simultaneously through the Channel Tunnel, i.e up to 1,000 trains per day, confirming its potential to develop low-carbon cross-Channel transport. STATCOM technology will ensure the long-term performance of Eurotunnel's infrastructure and open up new growth opportunities by facilitating access to cross-Channel services for new generation high-speed trains.

Nicolas Brossier, Engineering & Projects Director of Eurotunnel stated: “Faithfully to its pioneering spirit, the Channel Tunnel welcomes the world's largest STATCOM system in a railway environment. This state-of-the-art technological system reinforces the reliability and capacity of our infrastructure and ensures optimal operational performance for our customers 24/7.”

“Providing a stable and consistent flow of electricity to this vital link is critical. We are proud to have collaborated with valued customer Getlink to facilitate the successful upgrade of the traction network for the Channel Tunnel, which will ensure that millions of passengers continue to travel safely and efficiently between the UK and France,” added Johan Bindele, Grid Systems Integration Business Leader, GE Grid Solutions. “GE’s STATCOM technology is the prime solution to ensure power stability in the Tunnel and help navigate the complex environment that our customers are facing today."

Amar Chaabi, Chief Operations Officer of Eurostar Group, stated: “As pioneers of high-speed rail transport in Europe, Eurostar Group is proud to be part of this adventure that pushes the boundaries of cross-Channel travel. By improving the efficiency of the infrastructure and increasing the number of trains running through the tunnel, this new technological advance will support our ambitious target of carrying 30 million passengers a year by 2030, across our network.”

About GE Grid Solutions

Grid Solutions, a GE Renewable Energy business, serves customers globally with over 12,000 employees. Grid Solutions provides power utilities and industries worldwide with equipment, systems, and services to bring power reliably and efficiently from the point of generation to end power consumers. Grid Solutions is focused on addressing the challenges of the energy transition by enabling the safe and reliable connection of renewable and distributed energy resources to the grid. We electrify the world with advanced grid technologies and accelerate the energy transition. For more about GE’s Grid Solutions, visit  www.gegridsolutions.com