GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Recuperation

Recuperation in electric transport captures the kinetic energy generated during braking and converts it back into electricity, rather than dissipating it as heat through mechanical brakes.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regenerative_braking

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Recuperation in electric transport captures the kinetic energy generated during braking and converts it back into electricity, rather than dissipating it as heat through mechanical brakes. In rail operations, this recovered current is typically fed back into the overhead line, where other trains drawing power on the same network can use it immediately. On descending gradients—common in Alpine freight corridors—recuperation can offset a significant share of total energy consumption. For fleet operators, higher recuperation rates translate directly into lower electricity costs and improved carbon footprints. The concept differs from regenerative braking in automotive contexts mainly in scale and network integration.

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