List of railway electrification systems

This is a list of the power supply systems that are, or have been, used for railway electrification.

Note that the voltages are nominal and vary depending on load and distance from the substation.

As of 2023^[update], many trams and trains use on-board solid-state electronics to convert these supplies to run three-phase AC traction motors.

Tram electrification systems are listed here.

Voltages are defined by two standards: BS EN 50163 and IEC 60850.

All systems are third rail unless stated otherwise. Used by some older metros.

Conductor rail systems have been separated into tables based on whether they are top, side or bottom contact. Used by most metros outside Asia and the former Eastern bloc.

All systems are third rail and side contact unless stated otherwise.