Siemens Mobility has taken a major step towards its net zero ambitions at Goole Rail Village, switching on 1,700 solar panels that will significantly reduce the site’s carbon footprint. The panels, now fully operational, generate up to 1MW of clean energy, equivalent to the power needed for more than 150 homes.
This investment is part of Siemens Mobility’s £240 million commitment to Goole, reinforcing the town’s position as a leading centre for rail innovation and manufacturing in the UK. The Goole Rail Village, designed as a low-carbon site, is home to manufacturing, components, logistics, innovation, and office facilities, making it a key contributor to the region’s economic growth.
The solar panels are just one element of a broader sustainability strategy at Goole Rail Village. Siemens Mobility has also invested £2 million in air source heat pumps to heat production facilities, cutting carbon emissions by 980 tonnes annually—an 88% reduction. Additionally, the company is electrifying its vehicle fleet, rolling out up to 70 EV chargers, and encouraging sustainable travel through initiatives like the Goole + Howden Hopper bus service.
Finbarr Dowling, Siemens Mobility’s Director of Localisation, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability:
“Our vision from the outset was for the Goole Rail Village to be net zero in operations by 2030. With green energy generation, clean heating, and sustainable transport policies, we’re ensuring every aspect of the site minimizes its carbon impact. This is not just about Siemens Mobility—it’s about supporting the wider rail industry in its journey towards decarbonisation.”
Beyond its environmental impact, Siemens Mobility’s Goole Rail Village is a major boost to the local economy, bringing up to 1,000 new jobs and creating 1,700 supply chain opportunities. The site is already assembling the new Piccadilly line trains for Transport for London (TfL), set to enter service later this year. The company also plans to build all future mainline trains for the UK at Goole, including battery bi-mode trains, which could save Britain’s railways £3.5 billion and 12 million tonnes of CO2 over 35 years.
David Harris, Siemens Mobility’s Construction Project Manager, highlighted the long-term vision:
“We’ve integrated sustainability into every phase of this project, from construction to operation. Now that the facility is up and running, we’re seeing the full benefits of investing in green infrastructure from day one.”
With the addition of a £40 million Bogie Assembly and Service Centre, Siemens Mobility’s total investment in Goole is set to reach £240 million, further cementing the town’s role as a key hub for rail manufacturing and innovation.
As Siemens Mobility continues its journey towards net zero, Goole Rail Village stands as a shining example of sustainable rail technology and economic investment. This project not only strengthens East Yorkshire’s status as a leader in rail innovation but also aligns with the UK’s broader goals for a low-carbon transport future.
For more information on Siemens Mobility’s Goole Rail Village, visit www.siemens.co.uk/goole.
