Powering Rail Decarbonisation with GO RAIL

Instagrid announces a major milestone in the modernisation and decarbonisation of UK rail operations as Brandon Hire Station confirms a significant investment in Instagrid GO RAIL units for its national hire fleet.

Engineered specifically for the rail environment, Instagrid GO RAIL is a rail‑approved adaptation of the award‑winning Instagrid GO portable power unit. GO RAIL has successfully passed Network Rail’s rigorous product approval process, validating its safety, performance and compliance with the sector’s stringent operational standards.

Key modifications to the standard GO unit include a high‑visibility rail‑compliant colour and an optional two‑handle carry system -enabling safe, easy two‑person lifting along track and into remote locations where reliable, off‑grid power is essential.

As one of the UK’s leading tool and equipment hire providers, Brandon Hire Station continues to champion technologies that improve safety, efficiency and environmental performance across rail projects. By integrating GO RAIL into its fleet, the company is enabling contractors to work more effectively during overnight possessions, within noise‑sensitive areas, and in enclosed or emission‑restricted environments where traditional generators are unsuitable.

With over 30,000 miles of track and 20,000+ structures requiring ongoing maintenance, the UK rail network depends on reliable power access in locations away from a fixed grid supply.

Providing a clean, silent and high‑performance alternative to small fuel generators, GO RAIL helps solve off grid power needs by delivering instant power without fumes, noise, or the logistical burden of transporting and storing wet fuels.

This not only improves operational flexibility but removes the need for spill kits and fire prevention equipment, making GO RAIL ideal for tunnel works and confined spaces where safety restrictions traditionally limit generator use.

Brandon Hire Station’s investment ensures this technology is readily accessible to rail contractors nationwide, providing a simple, compliant route to future‑proof portable power.

Powering the Tools that Keep Britain’s Railways Running

Despite advances in battery‑powered equipment, a wide range of essential tools still rely on corded, high‑demand power. This is exactly the space where Instagrid GO RAIL excels.

From breakers and cutting tools to pumps, lighting and welding equipment, GO RAIL delivers a reliable, high‑output power - ensuring rail teams can maintain productivity without relying on generators.

• High Performance
  18,000 W peak power and 2.1 kWh capacity - an effective replacement for small fuel generators.
• Hand Portable
  Weighing just 21 kg the unit is highly portable.
• Silent & Emission Free
  Zero fumes, zero noise - ideal for night works and enclosed spaces.
• Smart Energy Management
  Instagrid’s patented digital control system actively manages energy and temperature across 144 lithium‑ion cells for maximum safety and efficiency.
• Scalable Power
  The optional GO RAIL LINK system can connect up to three units to deliver 6.3 kWh capacity, extended runtime and allows for hot‑swapping during longer operations.

Andrew Reed, Support Services Director, Brandon Hire Station, comments:

Matt O’Hara, UK Sales Director, Instagrid, adds:

Instagrid GO RAIL achieved Network Rail approval in December 2025 and has since been added to the Network Rail Controlled (PADS) Catalogue, simplifying specification and procurement for suppliers and principal contractors.

Find out more about the Instagrid Go Rail