UNITED KINGDOM - Hitachi ABB Power Grids is partnering with ZenobÄ" Energy to deliver a first of its kind system that converts power from batteries to energise the 25 kV rail traction power system.

ZenobÄ"'s batteries will be coupled with Hitachi ABB Power Grids Static Frequency Converter (SFC) technology to power 25 kV AC railway overhead lines, Hitachi ABB said in the press release. 

The batteries can power depots and sections of overhead lines during 'possessions', when track maintenance and upgrading is taking place. 

This will be the first time that batteries will be used to provide traction power for the UK rail network. The first planned applications will be to provide 24/7 traction power to depots.

Source: Hitachi ABB Power Grids