Fueling the Future: Hydrogen-Powered Trains🚂 on Track
Recently, a hydrogen-powered train made by Stadler (A Swiss company) completed a ~3000 km trial run in Colorado US without refueling & sets the world record.
Over the past 5 years, the mobility sector has undergone significant changes due to climate change concerns and efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Globally, the transportation sector is responsible for nearly 16.2% of total greenhouse gas emissions.
Green hydrogen, a clean energy source with minimal carbon emissions, serves as a safe alternative to fossil fuels. It can be produced in large volumes and is utilized across various industries, as an energy source, rocket fuel, and in passenger vehicles.
Examining the promise of green hydrogen and its decreasing expenses, the range of possibilities knows no bounds. The price of green hydrogen hinges on the affordability of renewable energy, which is becoming increasingly accessible, as well as the cost of feedstock. By 2030, the cost of production of green hydrogen could reach $2/kg, dropping to $1/kg by 2050, compared to its current rate of 3–8 USD per kg.
What is driving the railway industry’s focus on hydrogen trains?
Hydrogen-powered trains are undergoing testing as a potential replacement for both fossil fuel-powered and electric engine trains, aiming to decrease CO2 emissions. Additionally, electric locomotives are most effective in urban areas with well-developed infrastructure.
Advancements in Hydrogen-Powered Trains
Swiss train manufacturer Stadler set a world record during the testing of its hydrogen-powered train in the state of Colorado, USA. The train completed a journey of approximately 3000 km without refueling. Stadler trains are already available in the market, and the California State Transportation Agency has ordered a total of 10 rail vehicles from Stadler.
The EU’s FCH2Rail hydrogen train project completed its testing phase in Portugal following successful tests conducted in Spain last year. These tests were conducted as part of the European Commission’s Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking, which selected the consortium to develop a prototype for a hydrogen-powered train.
On the other hand, inspired by the success of European train tests, China is once again making significant investments in hydrogen fuel cell technology. China has successfully conducted trials of hydrogen-powered trains, indicating its intention to establish a dominant position, similar to what it did in the electric vehicle market. China plans to construct 1200 hydrogen refueling stations for mobility by 2050.
Global Hydrogen Train Development Status – Focusing on France, South Korea, Japan & China with their dedicated locomotives and defined fuel cell capacities
Anyhow, there’s no doubt that clean fuel is being replaced by fossil fuel but the question arises: is it sustainable for the long run and do we have enough hydrogen production capacity for successful transformation. We have to find answer!
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