SNCF Réseau has awarded one of its largest tenders, worth a total of 1.8 billion euros, for rail network regeneration work over the next 7 years. The four lots awarded cover massive track renewal work on conventional lines, and the renewal of switches and ballast on high-speed lines. They were won by the Eiffage/Captrain consortium (lots 1 and 5), Colas Rail/TSO (lot 2) and ETF (lot 4). Contractual innovations included greater visibility over worksite scheduling, an organization to optimize the use of construction equipment, and a bonus/malus system to encourage contractors. A commitment was also made to reduce the carbon footprint by 2 to 4% per year for the duration of the contract.
In 2024, SNCF Réseau is investing 3.2 billion euros in network regeneration, with 1,600 major worksites scheduled across France, to refurbish 1,064 km of track and regenerate or remove 492 switches.
The average age of the French rail network is currently around 30 years. The government has decided to gradually increase investment in its regeneration and modernization by an additional 1.5 billion euros per year.
Photo ©Eiffage/eiffage Captrain
