Caltrain's electric fleet is powered by 100% renewable energy supplied by WestLight Energy and San José Clean Energy. Together, these organizations are powering clean transit, reducing emissions, and building a more sustainable Bay Area.
Featured Partners
WestLight Energy
Providing renewable electricity for Caltrain and 97% of households and businesses in San Mateo County.
San José Clean Energy
Providing renewable electricity for Caltrain and 98% of households and businesses in San José.
A Partnership for Clean Transportation
Local Clean Energy Powers Regional Transit
When Caltrain launched electric service, it became the first commuter rail system in the American West to transition from diesel service to an electric fleet powered by 100% renewable energy.
That achievement is made possible through partnerships with WestLight Energy and San José Clean Energy, two not-for-profit electricity providers serving communities along the Caltrain corridor.
100% Renewable Energy
All Caltrain electric train service is powered by renewable energy supplied through WestLight Energy and San José Clean Energy.
How Clean Energy Powers Caltrain
Clean Energy Powers Caltrain
Every day, renewable electricity generated from sources like solar and wind powers Caltrain's electric fleet for thousands of riders.
Regenerative Braking Gives Energy Back
Generating Renewable Energy with Every Stop
Caltrain's modern, electric trains do more than use clean electricity; they also return energy to the grid.
When the trains slow down, regenerative braking technology captures energy and converts it back into electricity. That electricity can be used by other trains or sent back to the electric grid—or even used to charge your devices while you ride.
Since the launch of electric service, Caltrain has been returning nearly 25% of the energy it consumes back to the grid through regenerative braking.
An Innovative Net Billing Partnership
Creating Value from Clean Energy
In 2025, WestLight Energy and San José Clean Energy started compensating Caltrain for the clean electricity captured through regenerative braking.
This innovative approach helps Caltrain reduce operating costs, creating savings that can be passed on to customers. By collaborating together, Caltrain, WestLight Energy, and San José Clean Energy are helping to create one of the nation's most innovative clean transportation partnerships.
Benefits for the Bay Area
Shared Benefits Across the Bay Area
Caltrain’s renewable-powered electric trains replaced diesel-powered trains—so each time you ride, you’re helping to reduce pollution and maintain better air quality. Electrifying your home can further reduce emissions and improve air quality throughout the Bay Area.
Just as Caltrain's electric fleet recovers significant amounts of energy through regenerative braking, modern electric appliances in homes use energy more efficiently than traditional gas-powered equipment.
Your Clean Energy Journey at Home
Go Electric at Home with Cleaner Energy
Replacing gas-powered appliances with affordable, efficient electric alternatives can improve comfort, reduce emissions, and lead to a cleaner energy future.
Electric upgrades are available for both homeowners and renters:
- Heat pump heating and cooling systems
- Heat pump water heaters
- Induction cooktops
- Solar and home battery storage
- Electric vehicle charging
- New or used electric vehicles
- E-bikes or e-scooters
WestLight Energy and San José Clean Energy offer programs, rebates, incentives, and expert resources to help customers at all income levels electrify with confidence.
For San Mateo County Residents
WestLight Energy
For San José Residents
San José Clean Energy
Featured Partners
WestLight Energy
WestLight Energy provides clean electricity to communities throughout San Mateo County and is a key supplier of renewable energy for Caltrain's electric service.
San José Clean Energy
San José Clean Energy provides renewable electricity to customers in San José and partners with Caltrain to power cleaner transportation throughout the region.