In 2023, RNE and FTE contracted research institutes RISE and VTI to conduct a “feasibility study on using socio-economic criteria in case of capacity Shortages” in the future capacity management according to TTR (see more details here). Part of the study is also an evaluation of the potential usage of socio-economic modelling for cross-border capacity allocation. On 13 March, the research institutes meet the FTE-RNE Task Force representatives to present the first intermediate report and gather some feedback.
The meeting was attended by 40 representatives of IMs and RUs, who used the opportunity to get updates on the research and also contribute with comments and questions. The researchers presented the state of play of 3 work packages.
Firstly, they explained the socio-economic modelling methodology as is currently used in Sweden, and a few lessons learned which might lead to improvements in the future models. The presentation also included information on the potential gap between the Swedish approach and the intention of the European Commission in the proposal for Regulation 443 (Use of Rail Infrastructure). Nevertheless, it is obvious that it is not necessary in case of capacity conflicts to collect individual data in each case from Railway Undertakings and IMs, but the future model should be based on standardised values.
The second work package focuses on the potential usage of socio-economic cost modelling on the European scale. The researchers reported on different data sources that are in consideration, including some academic papers, the HEATCO project and JASPERS (assistance in EU project funded by EC and EIB). The plan is to summarise all available data, point out potential shortcomings, and provide recommendations on how to overcome the gap.
In the third work package, the researchers explained their idea of how to use the socio-economic methodology for the TTR Capacity Model. The difference compared to the usage in the annual timetable construction is the fact that not all exact timetable details are known, for instance, capacity bandwidths with undefined times are used. The researchers placed ideas about the usage of the Value Stream Mapping methodology and the expected willingness of customers to pay for the quality and speed of the transport service. In addition, it was discussed if the capacity of rail-related service facilities should not be considered as well in the evaluation.
The presentation was followed by an exchange of the participants. The experienced team of researchers will continue to work on the tasks. Selected stakeholders were invited for interviews and data collection. The next intermediate report is expected to be presented to the Task Force in the summer.
We will keep you updated with the news. In case you would like to understand better what socio-economic modelling in capacity management is and what benefits it can bring, you can read more on the dedicated page.