Siemens has been chosen by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to provide innovative electrification technology to power the Guadalupe Corridor light rail line. VTA’s infrastructure modernization will replace 27-year-old systems with Siemens’ new state-of-the-art electrification technology that includes advanced monitoring and diagnostic features to streamline maintenance activities.
The new technology includes traction power substations that convert alternating current electricity provided by the local utility to direct current in order to power the light rail trains, modern protection communication devices, and advanced circuit breakers and controllers that monitor the system and report issues if they arise. These systems can detect faults sooner and minimize stress on the line, resulting in a longer vehicle lifecycle and ultimately a more reliable ride for the approximately 10 million passengers who rely on VTA’s light rail system each year.
“VTA is pleased that Siemens is on board to upgrade our existing traction power substations,” said Adof Daaboul, senior transportation engineer, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. “With Siemens’ history of serving light rail communities throughout the country, we are looking forward to the new technology the company will provide in order to help keep our own VTA Light Rail system operating smoothly for years to come.”
"Light rail is one of our country’s most important modes of public transportation, and ensuring that it runs smoothly relies on critical electrification technologies you may not always be able to see and touch as a rider,” said Steffen Goeller, vice president of Siemens Rail Electrification in the U.S. “Siemens is excited to be chosen by VTA to enhance their existing infrastructure systems while bringing the latest in power technologies that increase the lifespan of vehicles and improve the rider experience.”
Siemens will be responsible for the full delivery of the project from design and production to final commissioning, including all elements of preparing the site and replacing the old existing traction power substations that converts electric power for the vehicles. This the first time Siemens will serve as the prime contractor for VTA.
Commissioning is scheduled to begin in November 2017.
