Plans are in progress to run a solar-powered train on the rail line into Byron Bay from April 2017.
The project is being run by the Byron Bay Railroad Company (BBRC), the owners of which also own the Elements of Byron resort. BBRC’s original plans to run the train carriage on diesel engines have drawn protests from local residents.
The Echo understands the revamped train will have dual electric engines and a battery pack taking power from curved solar panels on the roof. A diesel engine will still be available for back-up.
BBRC also intends to have a solar array and charging system at the train storage shed.
The new website for the train is byronbaytrain.com.au. It indicates the train will run from Byron Bay to Sunrise with a $3 fare each way.
The old diesel-powered website at northbyronbeachresort.com.au/rail-shuttle has further details on operation, planning approvals and infrastructure.
The Echo searched for solar-powered trains online and the only project we found was one in India. If readers know of others, please let us know.
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