Infrabel's Green Rail Initiative with Lamifil
Brussels, Thursday, 11 September 2025.
Infrabel partners with Lamifil to upgrade Belgium’s rail infrastructure with eco-friendly copper cables, backed by a €826,274 innovation grant from the Flemish government, aligning with climate goals.
Strategic Partnership and Innovation
Infrabel, the Belgian railway infrastructure manager, has embarked on a transformative journey towards sustainable rail transport by partnering with Lamifil, a cable manufacturer based in Hemiksem, Belgium. This collaboration is a strategic step in modernizing Belgium’s rail system with eco-friendly copper cables. The Flemish government has supported this initiative with a €826,274 innovation subsidy, allowing Lamifil to develop and implement a new alloy called Powerfil®, which is free of cadmium, a heavy metal previously essential for the cables’ mechanical and electrical properties [1].
Impact on Rail Infrastructure
The introduction of Powerfil® cables, which are mechanically robust and offer superior electrical conductivity, marks a pivotal advancement in the electrification of Belgium’s railway network. Over 90% of the country’s main railway tracks, spanning approximately 6,000 kilometers, utilize overhead power lines that are now being upgraded to these more efficient and environmentally friendly variants. This upgrade not only aligns with climate goals but also promises enhanced energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact, making a substantial contribution to Belgium’s sustainability objectives [1].
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The multi-year €45 million contract awarded to Lamifil signifies a significant investment in the Belgian economy, as part of Infrabel’s nearly €1 billion annual federal government grant is reinvested domestically. The project is expected to energize the local economy while simultaneously advancing environmental sustainability. The use of Powerfil® in overhead lines is a testament to Belgium’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting green innovation in the rail sector [1].
Future Prospects and Broader Applications
Looking ahead, the new alloy developed by Lamifil is not restricted to railway applications alone. Powerfil® is also being utilized in the aviation, space, and medical sectors, highlighting its versatility and potential for broader adoption. This innovation is poised to set a precedent for future projects, encouraging the development of greener technologies across various industries. Infrabel’s initiative, supported by the Flemish government’s substantial funding, underscores the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in driving sustainable development [1].