Seinäjoki-Oulu Rail Electrification: Finland’s Sustainable Transport

Say goodbye to the diesel locomotive! Finland’s electrifying the Seinäjoki-Oulu railway, a €165 million project boosting efficiency and slashing emissions.

Seinäjoki-Oulu Rail Electrification: Finland’s Sustainable Transport
July 7, 2016 3:26 am
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Introduction

In November 2022, the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (Väylä) initiated a project to electrify the railway line between Seinäjoki and Oulu, with an estimated cost of €165 million. This project aims to improve railway transport efficiency and reduce emissions.

Project Scope and Timeline

The electrification project encompasses the 288-kilometer-long railway section between Seinäjoki and Oulu. The plan includes the construction of new substations in Kokkola and Ii, as well as the upgrading of existing substations in Seinäjoki, Tervola, and Oulu. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2023, with completion expected by the end of 2026. The project also involves the installation of approximately 600 kilometers of new overhead contact lines.

Budget and Funding

The total estimated cost for the Seinäjoki-Oulu railway electrification project is €165 million. The funding will be provided by the Finnish state. The project is expected to create numerous jobs during the construction phase.

Operational and Environmental Benefits

The electrification of the Seinäjoki-Oulu railway line is anticipated to significantly improve the efficiency of rail transport. It will facilitate the use of electric trains, which are more energy-efficient than diesel locomotives. The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions from railway operations, contributing to Finland’s climate goals. The implementation will also increase the capacity of the railway line, enabling the transportation of more goods and passengers.

Diesel locomotive

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Key Project Elements

The project includes the construction of substations in Kokkola and Ii, and upgrades to existing substations in Seinäjoki, Tervola, and Oulu. The installation of new overhead contact lines is a critical part of this project, totaling approximately 600 kilometers.

Conclusion

The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (Väylä) is undertaking a railway electrification project between Seinäjoki and Oulu, budgeted at €165 million, with construction from 2023 to 2026. The project will electrify the 288 km rail line, build substations, and install overhead lines to increase efficiency and reduce emissions.

Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (Väylä)

The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency (Väylä) is responsible for the maintenance, development, and planning of Finland’s transport infrastructure, including railways, roads, and waterways. The agency’s goal is to ensure the functionality, safety, and sustainability of the transport system.

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