Ballard has signed a contract to supply hydrogen modules for locomotive conversion in California under a $19.5 million environmental project. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Ballard has signed a contract to supply hydrogen modules for locomotive conversion in California under a $19.5 million environmental project
Photo: Ballard Power Systems

Ballard Power Systems will provide 12 FCmove-XD modules with a total output of 1.5 MW for three Sierra Northern Railway locomotives. The project is backed by the State of California.

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In March, the first hydrogen locomotive successfully completed testing. By 2027, the operator plans to fully transition its shunting fleet to clean traction.

Ballard Brings Clean Technology to the Rail Industry

Each FCmove-XD module weighs 238 kg and operates in ambient temperatures from −30°C to +40°C. When inactive, it can withstand temperatures as low as −40°C.

The system starts at −25°C without external power. It features liquid cooling, built-in humidification, and automatic pressure control for optimal performance.

Ballard ensures up to 60% fuel efficiency, making the technology competitive in the sustainable energy market.

Ballard Expands Global Reach in Hydrogen Rail Solutions

Ballard’s technology powers the first hydrogen mainline locomotive in North America for CPKC and the Pesa hydrogen locomotive — the first to receive certification for operation in Europe.

Hydrogen modules are also installed in India’s first hydrogen-powered train, showing Ballard’s global scalability and adaptability to diverse railway systems.

Sierra Northern Railway sees its partnership with Ballard as a critical step toward building a zero-emission logistics network in California.

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