Phase 2 - Filton Renewables - Prototype - R&D Project

Network Rail (Wales and Western) intends to award a contract via direct award under the Procurement Act 2023 to Turbo Power Systems Limited (TPS) for the continued development (Phase 2) of a first-of-its-kind 25 kV Integrated Converter Prototype for use on the railway. This prototype forms part of a strategic innovation programme to enable the use of self-generated renewable energy for powering electric trains — a key enabler of Network Rail’s long-term decarbonisation and sustainability objectives. TPS, a specialist in advanced power electronic systems, initially proposed the concept to Network Rail and successfully delivered Phase 1, which included the design and demonstration of a proof of concept. This was formally reviewed and approved by Network Rail’s Technical Authority, confirming both technical feasibility and alignment with operational requirements. The Phase 2 contract will progress the innovation to a functional prototype, building directly on the technical foundations established in the initial phase.