Barcelona uses metro trains to recharge e-scooters

A 12-month pilot project in Barcelona is using energy recovered from metro trains braking to charge personal e-scooters.

The idea for the Metrolinera scheme came out of an internal innovation challenge at public transport operator TMB.

Nine modular charging lockers that use energy from the metro have been installed at Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica station.

The initiative is in response to a growth in the use of electric mobility in Barcelona, as well as the need to find ways to reduce consumption amid the climate and energy crises.

Laia Bonet, Barcelona’s Deputy Mayor for the 2030 Agenda, Digital Transition & International Relations and President of TMB, said the pilot “is an example of the commitment to self-consumption, recovery and reuse of excess energy that is lost in the activity of the service.”

This is in line with TMB’s Energy Efficiency and Saving Plan which was released last month with a goal to reduce electricity use by 68 GWh annually. This represents an estimated saving of 122,000 tonnes of CO2 and €20 million (US$19.8 million) in consumption per year, and €7 million in fixed energy rating costs.

Internal innovation

Bonet said that the initiative meets the needs of residents by integrating public transport services, personal mobility devices and energy efficiency.

She added that the project has additional value because it was created and developed by internal talent.

TMB’s innovation challenge called on teams of employees to respond to the theme of ‘the station of the future’ and come up with ways to improve the experience for users.

Until October 24, students of Pompeu Fabra University next to Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica station can use the service free of charge and other users will receive a 50 percent discount. After that, full costs will apply based on how long the vehicle is charged for.

Members of the JoTMBé loyalty scheme will continue to receive a discount.