N2NS Phase 1 adds Inland Rail solar-powered level crossings

Inland Rail solar-powered level crossings are now in place at two sites. They form part of finishing works. Those works are on the Narrabri to North Star (N2NS) Phase 1 section.

Inland Rail solar-powered level crossings on N2NS

The two crossings sit north of Moree and north of Narrabri. They are the first passive-to-active conversions on the Inland Rail network. Also, they are the first passive-to-active conversions on the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) network. At the same time, both upgrades use standalone solar power systems (SAPS).

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Level crossings are typically powered through grid-connected electricity with battery back-up. By moving to solar, Inland Rail avoided the need to connect to existing power infrastructure. Separately, it also avoided building new electrical assets. That approach reduced land access requirements. Meanwhile, it limited impacts on nearby landholders.

Both upgraded crossings now include high-intensity LED flashing lights, bells and retro-reflective boom gates. They are intended to improve safety for users. Detailed testing and commissioning have been completed at both sites. The installations also include internal batteries for overnight operation and emergency back-up. For example, communications technology supports remote monitoring and fault detection.

Sustainability focus beyond the upgraded crossings

Inland Rail said the work forms part of its broader sustainability focus. The N2NS Phase 1 section has already received an ‘Excellent’ As Built rating. Also, the rating came from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council.

Solar-powered signalling systems are also being introduced at other locations along the alignment. They will provide electricity once Inland Rail becomes operational. In addition, an Inland Rail spokesperson said the systems reduce costs. At the same time, the spokesperson said they limit impacts on communities and the environment. “The Narrabri to North Star project is another example of Inland Rail’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and industry leadership,” the spokesperson said.

Inland Rail is a 1600-kilometre freight rail artery. It links Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The route has been divided into 12 sections. In addition, the split supports staged delivery of the open-access network. Future decisions on delivery north of Narromine are currently under consideration by the Australian Government.

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