Ground level power supply (aka Surface current collection) is a form of third rail pick-up for street tramways.

It is used as an alternative to overhead lines, often for aesthetic reasons, not to be confused with conduit current collection in Washington and parts of London. Ground level power supply, unlike the form of third rail used in subway systems, is street compatible.

Ground level power supply systems use a series of electrically charged rail lengths separated by insulating rail lengths along the length of the track. The charged rails are switched on only when the vehicle is directly above them.

External link

• Description of ground level power supply system in Bordeaux