Tilt Consulting Position on Rail Decarbonisation

At Tilt Consulting, we believe that comprehensive electrification remains the most effective and future-ready solution for decarbonising Britain’s railway network. The majority view among our team supports this approach, reflecting our commitment to sustainability, operational efficiency, and long-term value for rail users and the wider economy.

We recognise the growing role that alternative traction technologies, such as battery and hydrogen, may play as part of a broader decarbonisation strategy. While their potential is acknowledged, we believe these solutions should be carefully integrated alongside a sustained programme of electrification.

Our team sees multi-mode rolling stock, including bi-mode and tri-mode options, as a useful transitional measure where full electrification is not yet feasible. When it comes to rolling stock procurement, the emphasis should be on solutions that are future-proof, flexible, and aligned with long-term environmental goals.

There is a shared view that industry and government must continue to build capacity and clarity to deliver on decarbonisation objectives. We support efforts to strengthen the sector’s readiness - technically, culturally, and commercially - for a low-carbon future.

We call on industry and Government to:

•          Prioritise electrification for all new and reopened railway lines;

•          Phase out diesel-only trains;

•          Provide clearer, more credible funding and policy direction;

•          Equip the UK rail sector with the necessary skills, structure, and incentives to deliver a zero-carbon railway.

Tilt Consulting stands with others across the rail industry calling for practical, long-term planning to ensure that decarbonisation is delivered with ambition, consistency, and impact.