Slow Progress in Electrifying Germany's Rail Network

The electrification of rail lines in Germany continues to advance at a sluggish pace. In 2024, only 20 kilometers of track were equipped with overhead lines, and for 2025, an additional 45 kilometers are projected. This means that one-third of Germany's rail network remains accessible only by diesel-powered trains, as reported by the Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) and the advocacy group Allianz pro Schiene.

Between 2020 and 2025, the share of electrified tracks increased marginally from 61% to 62%. The German government's initial target aimed for 75% of the rail network to be electrified by 2025, a goal that now appears unattainable.

Nevertheless, there is renewed optimism among industry advocates following a governmental transition. The new administration plans to streamline the electrification process significantly. The removal of the lengthy cost-benefit analysis, as outlined in the coalition agreement, has been positively received by both organizations, which previously required a demonstration of the economic benefits of expansion. However, the new government has yet to establish a clear expansion target.

Despite this, the organizations believe that achieving 80% electrification by 2035 is feasible. They anticipate that reducing bureaucracy and the proposed additional funding through the Climate and Transformation Fund will be instrumental in reaching this goal. Furthermore, increased military spending may also provide impetus for electrifying more routes to facilitate military transport.

Another potential acceleration factor is the possibility of forgoing overhead lines on secondary routes, which are designed for higher speeds. Implementing standard overhead lines suitable for speeds of 100 km/h could reduce construction efforts and costs.

Particular attention is being directed towards rail lines at border crossings, where currently only 28 out of 57 crossings are equipped with overhead electrification. There is a pressing need for improvement, especially at borders with Poland and the Czech Republic.