In 2023, the length of non-electrified railway lines used exclusively for freight transport in France stood at approximately 1.97 thousand kilometers. Forecasted data from 2024 to 2028 indicates a consistent annual decline in length, from 1.91 to 1.68 thousand kilometers. This decline represents a year-on-year decrease of about 3.1% in 2024 compared to 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around -3% over the five-year period. By 2028, the non-electrified freight rail network is projected to decrease by nearly 15%.
Future trends to watch for:
- Transition to electrified lines and investments in sustainable rail infrastructure could accelerate the decline of non-electrified lines.
- Changes in freight transport demand and environmental policies may influence the pace of electrification.
- Technological advancements in battery and hybrid trains may offer alternative solutions to full electrification.
