Sierra Northern Railway launched the Nation’s first hydrogen locomotive, a zero-emission freight locomotive proven and built in California, as a historic stride toward replacing diesel engines and cutting millions of state-wide fuel consumption.

Hydrogen locomotive debut marks milestone for freight rail
Photo: SNR

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Freight railroad innovation launches hydrogen locomotive

The prototype locomotive, developed in partnership with partners and Railpower Technologies, reduces annual diesel use by approximately 10,000 gallons. Therefore, replacing California’s 260 switchers would reduce over 12 million gallons per year, cutting emissions by nearly 20,000 cars.

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The project was also funded by state and local funds amounting to $23.5 million. SNR’s goal is to have four generating plants by 2027 and, in the future, convert its entire generating fleet to clean energy and extend the technology nationwide.

Sierra Northern Railway drives sustainable solutions

The locomotive features onboard storage, next-generation batteries, and advanced safety technology. Meanwhile, Sierra Energy’s FastOx® waste gasification offers a clean, renewable energy source while reducing landfill use and supporting the growing clean energy infrastructure of California.

Officials cited how the program creates construction and engineering jobs and facilitates the reliability of the freight network. Industry leaders, however, indicated that increasing hydrogen power for freight rail is contingent upon successful collaboration and investment in infrastructure across America.

What makes the hydrogen locomotive significant for freight rail?

The hydrogen locomotive is the first of its kind for U.S. freight service, delivering zero-emission potential, reduced diesel consumption, and scalable clean air and sustainable mobility solutions.

How does Sierra Northern Railway produce hydrogen fuel?

Sierra Energy employs FastOx® gasification to turn post-recycled waste into hydrogen. This system decreases landfill dependence, produces clean energy, and facilitates the shift from diesel-based freight rail services to sustainable freight rail services.

When will more hydrogen locomotives enter service?

The Sierra Northern Railway will operate four commercial units by 2027. As such, the firm projects steadily replacing its own fleet and moving toward hydrogen solutions for wider application across the U.S. railroad network.

Source: www.railwayage.com

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