Estonian Railways initiates electrification on Tapa–Narva section

Snow-covered electrified railway tracks with overhead contact lines on the Tapa–Narva section in Estonia
© Eesti Raudtee
The project progresses with two newly signed contracts with GRK Eesti, aimed at developing the contact network and supporting infrastructure.

Estonian Railways (AS Eesti Raudtee) has commenced electrification work on the Tapa–Narva section, following ongoing efforts between Aegviidu, Tapa, and Tartu.

The first agreement, valued at €81 million, involves the design and construction of the contact network and traction substations. The second contract, worth €2.9 million, secures a five-year maintenance framework for the contact network once operational. Both contracts follow an international tender process conducted earlier this year.

The Tapa–Narva contact network is expected to be completed by 2027. This project is part of a broader electrification strategy that will increase the total length of electrified railways in Estonia from 237 kilometers to over 700 kilometers. The goal is to modernize the railway infrastructure, contributing to improved operational efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of rail transport.

The majority of the project costs—85%—are being funded by the European Union, with the remaining 15% covered by the Estonian state budget. GRK Eesti, leveraging experience from previous electrification efforts on the Aegviidu–Tapa–Tartu route, will play a key role in implementing the new section.

This development continues Estonia’s focus on expanding its electric railway network, which includes parallel efforts on sections such as Lagedi–Aegviidu, handled by other contractors. The Tapa–Narva electrification forms a significant component of the country's railway modernization initiative.


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