Denmark’s EU Rail Presidency: Infrastructure, Emissions, & ERTMS

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Denmark to Champion Rail Investment, Emissions Targets, and Military Mobility During EU Presidency

Denmark is poised to take center stage in shaping the future of European rail. From July onwards, during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Danish government will lead crucial negotiations surrounding the EU’s budget and policy. This includes discussions following the European Commission’s release of the draft EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). This presents a significant opportunity to secure long-term funding for vital rail infrastructure projects. Why is this important? Because the EU needs to modernize its rail network, reduce emissions, and improve military mobility. This article will explore Denmark’s priorities, focusing on infrastructure investment, emissions reduction goals, and the strategic importance of rail in the coming years.

Investing in a Modern European Rail Network

The cornerstone of Denmark’s agenda is securing robust funding for rail infrastructure. The focus will be on programs that succeed initiatives like the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), Horizon Europe, and the Competitiveness Fund. These funds are crucial for modernizing the European rail network, a necessity in the face of rising rail passenger and freight demand. Key to this modernization is the implementation of advanced signaling systems, most notably the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). ERTMS, a standardized European signaling system, enhances safety, increases capacity, and promotes interoperability across borders. Denmark’s experience in deploying ERTMS across its own national network, aiming for full conversion to ETCS Level 2 by 2033, positions it well to advocate for its accelerated implementation across the EU. The Union of European Railway Industries (UNIFE) has actively encouraged the Danish government to prioritize adequate funding to achieve this goal, recognising that modernizing the network is essential for future success.

Ambitious Emissions Targets and the Role of Rail

A central goal of the Danish presidency is to confirm the EU’s 2040 emissions target, expected to be unveiled in July. This target is expected to be a significant driver of long-term planning for the rail sector, encouraging investment and sustainability efforts. UNIFE supports a 90 percent reduction target in domestic greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, which would have profound implications for the transport sector. Rail, as a more environmentally friendly mode of transport compared to road or air travel, is poised to play a crucial role in reaching this target. Investments in rail infrastructure and technology, such as electrification and advanced signaling systems, are critical to making rail a more competitive and attractive option for both passenger and freight transport.

ERTMS: A Dual-Purpose Technology for Passengers, Freight, and Military Mobility

The deployment of ERTMS is not only vital for passenger and freight transport, but also for enhancing military mobility. In the context of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) Regulation, ERTMS’s standardized approach to signaling and train control is crucial for ensuring interoperability and efficiency across the European rail network. This supports the strategic movement of military assets and personnel, a critical consideration in the current geopolitical climate. Furthermore, ERTMS deployment is essential for the High-Speed Rail Plan, facilitating faster and more reliable cross-border travel. Denmark’s leadership in digital transformation can drive further EU investment in smart and secure transport systems and its influence in the EU will be crucial in promoting and securing further investment to modernize the infrastructure across the continent.

Promoting European Competitiveness and Innovation

Beyond specific infrastructure projects, the Danish Presidency will seek to improve competitiveness through reforms. One of these key areas is the update of public procurement directives, which is designed to support the European railway industry. A renewed focus on innovation will be critical for securing Europe’s Joint Rail Undertaking. UNIFE has already stressed the importance of renewing Europe’s Joint Rail Undertaking to further support innovation and maintain global competitiveness within the industry. This comprehensive approach, encompassing infrastructure investment, emissions reductions, and enhanced military mobility, underlines Denmark’s commitment to a sustainable and resilient European rail network.

Conclusion

The Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union presents a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of European rail. By prioritizing investment in infrastructure, setting ambitious emissions reduction targets, and recognizing the strategic importance of rail for military mobility, Denmark can significantly contribute to a more sustainable and efficient transport system. Securing long-term funding for programs like the successors to CEF, Horizon Europe, and the Competitiveness Fund, will be paramount. The widespread deployment of ERTMS, which facilitates interoperability and increases capacity across the network, is an essential undertaking. The focus on emissions targets and promoting innovations to remain competitive will be vital for maintaining the strength and future success of the EU rail sector. The decisions made during the Danish Presidency will have lasting implications for the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the European rail network, solidifying its role in the future of European transport.

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