RZD continues to implement new energy-saving technologies

July 16, Minsk / Olga Belyavskaya - BELTA /. The Vitebsk branch of Belarusian Railways is implementing new energy-saving technologies, the BZhD press service told a BELTA correspondent. During the project implementation at Vitebsk station, Vitebsk locomotive depot and Vitebsk car depot, domestic vacuum solar collectors were installed. "The implementation of helium systems has been underway at the branch since 2008," the press service said. "A total of 12 solar collectors have been installed at the structural units. All of them are designed to heat water during the inter-heating period, meet modern environmental requirements, and allow for an annual saving of over 200 tons of conventional fuel." Over the past five years, the Vitebsk branch has reduced its consumption of fuel and energy resources by 20% under comparable conditions. Last year, more than 100 energy-saving measures were implemented at the branch's enterprises, saving over 1.6 thousand tons of conventional fuel. This year, work on optimizing technological processes and implementing innovations will continue. "The use of alternative energy sources is a promising environmental use of natural resources that is gaining popularity worldwide," the press service added. "Belarusian Railways is directly involved in the implementation of the National Program for the Development of Local and Renewable Energy Sources for 2011-2015." The railway company uses a comprehensive approach to address energy saving issues. During 2012, it is planned to install helium water heating systems and heat pumps at the enterprises of all BZhD branches. The use of LED lighting will be expanded, and worn-out equipment and heat pipelines will be replaced. In addition, a number of energy-saving measures will be aimed at increasing the use of local fuels and secondary energy resources. -0-