THE German state of Schleswig-Holstein has issued a call for tenders for detailed planning of the electrification of the 173km DB Network line from Itzehoe north of Hamburg to Westerland on the island of Sylt. The line includes a rail-only causeway linking the island to the mainland.
The tender is divided into three lots: Itzehoe - Heide, Heide - Husum and Husum – Westerland. As well as detailed electrification planning, the tender seeks input on how existing infrastructure can be upgraded and capacity increased. Some sections of the existing line are single track and have mechanical signalling.
The tender also includes planning work for the 26km line from Husum to Jübek on the Hamburg - Flensburg - Padborg line which could act as an electrified diversionary route.
The contracts for planning work will be awarded in 2024. Schleswig-Holstein and infrastructure manager DB Network plan to complete electrification by the early 2030s, providing funding can be secured.
The main line from Itzehoe to Westerland is used by regional and Intercity services, as well as car and lorry shuttle services operated by both German Ral (DB) and Railroad Development Corporation (RDC) between Niebüll and Westerland. DB intends to introduce its new Talgo ICE-L trains on the route from 2026, initially using Siemens Vectron dual-mode locomotives.
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