SNCB, Belgium’s national railway operator, is stepping up measures to reduce energy consumption, ranging from more efficient train operations to the modernization of rolling stock, reducing energy use in buildings, and expanding solar power generation. In 2025, the company had an annual consumption of 1,078 GWh, equivalent to just over 1% of Belgium’s total electricity consumption.
SNCB is Belgium’s largest electricity consumer, according to data released by the company. Its annual consumption is comparable to that of a city such as Namur or Mechelen, which means that energy efficiency measures have a significant impact at the national level.
The Belgian rail operator states that reducing energy consumption is one of the priorities included in the 2023–2032 public service contract concluded with the Belgian government. SNCB has committed to reducing traction energy consumption by 10% and energy consumption in its buildings by 40% compared to 2005 levels during this period.
More efficient operation for 3,800 trains per day
Although the train is one of the most energy-efficient modes of transport, the operation of approximately 3,800 daily trains accounts for nearly 80% of SNCB’s total energy consumption.
To reduce this consumption, the operator is relying on eco-driving, a smoother driving style based on limiting sudden acceleration and braking and optimizing speed.
SNCB emphasizes that trains do not need to run at maximum speed at all times to arrive at their destination on time. By maintaining an optimal speed, the engineer can save energy without compromising punctuality.
This recommended speed is now calculated in real time, based on the train schedule, route characteristics, and network conditions. The information is displayed on eDrive, the tablet used by the driver during the trip, which helps them improve the energy efficiency of their driving.
Drivers thus adapt their driving style, avoid rapid acceleration and deceleration, and anticipate stops by braking early. Whenever possible, the train also uses inertia, running on certain sections without additional energy consumption.
Energy recovered during braking
Newer rolling stock, such as the Desiro trains and M7 cars, can recover energy during braking and feed it back into the catenary to be reused by other trains.
SNCB states that fleet renewal and modernization significantly improve the energy performance of the rolling stock. At the same time, drivers receive regular training to recover as much energy as possible through eco-driving techniques.
The company also reduces energy consumption when trains are stationary.
In workshops, during maintenance or cleaning operations, staff strive to avoid waste by turning off lights, closing doors, and turning off the heating when it is not needed.
SNCB says that these seemingly small measures collectively have a real impact on energy savings. Consumption is constantly monitored, and staff are continually made aware of the need to reduce waste.
Buildings account for 20% of the company’s energy consumption
SNCB’s building stock represents the second-largest source of energy consumption, accounting for approximately 20% of the total energy used by the company.
The operator implements measures to reduce consumption in buildings, offices, workshops, and other facilities. Spaces are optimized, and heating and air conditioning are turned off in unused halls or rooms.
SNCB is also continuing its program to install LED lighting, and underground parking garages are equipped with adaptive lighting systems. Other measures target specific equipment, such as compressors or thermostatic valves.
Increased target for solar panels
In parallel with reducing consumption, SNCB is developing its own production of renewable electricity by installing solar panels on buildings, parking lots, and other sites.
In 2025, the company produced nearly 8 GWh of solar energy through 29 photovoltaic installations, with a total capacity of 8.3 MWp.
SNCB recently revised its photovoltaic targets upward and aims to increase installed capacity fivefold, to 40 MWp by 2032.
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