Chile plans to develop and implement hydrogen trains by signing a crucial agreement. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

hydrogen trains
Photo: The Economic Times

The project involves EFE Trenes de Chile, the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications, the National Hydrogen Institute (INH2), and Hydrox. These organizations aim to work together to design and test a hydrogen power system that will help move the country toward a sustainable future.

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Under the agreement, specialists will develop and test a prototype train powered by hydrogen fuel. To achieve this, they plan to modify an existing UT train that previously operated on the Biotran network and was retired in 2021. The work will take place at the San Eugenio Maestranza station, where they will complete the prototype and conduct necessary tests on routes designated by EFE.

EFE Trenes de Chile’s general director, Jose Solorza, emphasized the importance of exploring new energy sources for transport. He stated that hydrogen could serve as a promising fuel for both passenger and freight transportation. His statement underlines Chile’s commitment to sustainable transportation and a future driven by clean technology.

Global Experience with Hydrogen Trains

Hydrogen trains are actively being adopted worldwide, underscoring their long-term potential. In Europe, the United States, China, and South Korea, trains powered by hydrogen fuel are either in operation or undergoing trials, highlighting global interest in this technology. Saudi Arabia recently began testing the Alstom hydrogen train, and India plans to trial a local hydrogen train in Delhi on the Northern Railway in December 2024.

Challenges and Prospects for Hydrogen Trains

Europe and China have gained significant experience with hydrogen technology but also uncovered some challenges. During operations, it has become clear that deploying hydrogen trains requires thorough research and preparation. This applies to assessing the suitability of hydrogen-powered trains in areas with alternative traction options, as well as meeting high standards for infrastructure and the quality of fuel cells supplied.

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