Enel, through its energy services unit Enel X and RusEnergoSbyt, the energy supplier and joint venture between Enel and ESN, signed a Partnership Agreement with Joint Stock Company Russian Railways (RZhD), whereby the two players will team up mainly for the development of innovative energy storage systems to be installed across the Country’s railway network. This is the first time this type of battery technology is used in the railway sector, the company announced.

The agreement was signed by Enel CEO and General Manager, Francesco Starace and RZhD General Director, Belozerov Oleg Valentinovich against the backdrop of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum with the aim to help stabilise the Russian railway electricity grid, improve train operations as well as avoid expensive grid upgrades that might otherwise be required.

“This project is an excellent example of how we leverage on our global presence to bring new and innovative technologies to our most important markets around the world. Today’s announcement is an exciting step forward for Enel in Russia, and allows us to diversify further our storage portfolio which delivers solutions tailored to the specific requirements of customers and their market,” said Francesco Starace, Enel CEO and general manager.

“It is a pleasure to announce this cooperation with an important company like Russian Railways, with whom we have enjoyed a valuable and collaborative relationship over many years.”