Barcelona taps its subway system to generate clean energy

Barcelona is transforming its subway system into a power source by using regenerative braking technology to fuel electric trains, station facilities, and even EV chargers across the city.

Natalie Donback reports for Grist.

In short:

• Barcelona’s subway generates electricity from regenerative braking, powering trains and EV chargers in the city’s MetroCHARGE project.
• The system will reduce CO2 emissions by 3.9 metric tons annually, with plans to power 41% of trains with this tech by September’s end.
• Other cities, like New York, are exploring similar methods but face challenges, including retrofitting costs and complex stakeholder involvement.

Key quote:

“There’s so much energy that’s not being used, and not only is it lost, it also generates heat.”

— Jordi Picas, director of Metro Systems, TMB

Why this matters:

This forward-thinking approach not only cuts down on energy waste but also feeds into a growing network of EV chargers, helping the city’s broader push for sustainable transit. With urban centers increasingly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, Barcelona’s model shows how green innovation can work in ways we might not even notice as we rush to catch the next train. Read more: The climate crisis demands a move away from car dependency.