PKP PLK, in collaboration with PGE Energetyka Kolejowa Operator, has tested a system for de-icing overhead lines during freezing rain. The solution converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC) and circulates it in a loop through the contact wires, thereby heating the overhead line to around 4-5 °C. This helps to mitigate ice formation on the wires. The system can be activated either automatically upon the detection of glaze ice or manually. The pilot installation was installed at the Kostów substation under the supervision of the Railway Institute. It is currently being tested on the Kostów – Biskupice and Kostów – Byczyna Kluczborska – Krzywizna sections, as well as at the Byczyna Kluczborska station. During the 2025/26 autumn and winter season, the project partners evaluated the system's heating performance, as well as its functions for detecting passing vehicles and monitoring the power consumption of electric multiple units (EMU). According to PKP PLK, the field trials confirmed both the temperature rise in the contact wires and the functionality of the automated system. Development work is currently underway on software for train localisation and congestion situation analysis. Furthermore, the partners are preparing new software releases, adapting the algorithms to the local infrastructure, and integrating the system with the SCADA system for energy monitoring and control.
