BNSF installed solar panels on the ground-throw switches in the Shelby, MT yard. Why?
I guess every little bit that can save energy helps, have they gone Green?
Pneumatic push button switches probably…
The panels of course charge batteries which do whatever job is assigned.
We have them at logistics park in Joliet . They work pretty well at least until lightining takes them out with a direct hit .
A whole lot cheaper than running utility power to every turnout!
RWM
Has vandalism in remote areas been a problem?
Always has been. You want to see stuff shot out and shot up, that’s the rural area. But THEFT is the big problem. Seems like people think that railway solar panels are freebies for their hunting cabins, double-wides, deer blinds, you name it.
RWM