The Push for Sustainable Rail Solutions
Climate change and emissions reduction are top priorities for the rail industry. As companies strive for more sustainable fuel options, hydrogen emerges as a promising alternative.
European Year of Rail: Spotlight on Innovation
With 2021 dubbed the European Year of Rail, the industry is under the spotlight for innovation and sustainability. Rail is already recognized as one of the cleanest modes of transport. Data from the Office of Rail and Road shows diesel usage in passenger trains increased by 1.5% from 2018-2019, but CO2 emissions fell to a record low of 35.1g CO2 per passenger km.
The Search for Alternative Fuels
Despite its relatively low environmental impact, the rail industry continuously seeks alternative fuels to further reduce its footprint. While some companies have turned to battery power, others are exploring hydrogen as a viable option.
How Hydrogen Fuel Works
Hydrogen fuel can be produced through various methods, most notably natural gas reforming and water electrolysis. The latter uses electricity from renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydro to separate hydrogen from water.
The World’s First Hydrogen Train: Coradia iLint
Introduction and Launch
Alstom’s Coradia iLint is the world’s first passenger train powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Launched in Germany in 2018, this zero-emission train produces only steam and water as exhaust, significantly reducing noise pollution.
Performance and Capabilities
The Coradia iLint can travel up to 1,000 km (about 621.37 mi) at speeds of 140 km (about 86.99 mi)/h and accommodate 300 passengers. It uses a fuel cell to combine hydrogen stored on the train’s roof with oxygen from the air to generate the necessary electricity.
Hydrogen Power in the UK: Hydroflex
Development and Testing
The UK’s first hydrogen-powered train, Hydroflex, was developed by the University of Birmingham and Porterbrook. Converted from a Class 319 train, Hydroflex includes hydrogen fuel tanks, a fuel cell, and a battery pack, enabling zero-carbon operation. The train successfully completed its first mainline test in 2019, demonstrating its compatibility with existing infrastructure.
Advancements and Future Plans
Following successful testing, Hydroflex two is being developed with enhanced integration of the fuel cell and battery system, promising increased power and performance.
The Benefits of Hydrogen as a Sustainable Rail Fuel
Hydrogen fuel offers significant benefits, including zero-carbon emissions and efficient energy output. It’s a mobile fuel, making it convenient for train operations. Dr. Stuart Hillmansen from the University of Birmingham highlights hydrogen’s role in achieving decarbonization targets, especially in less-frequented rural areas where electrification isn’t cost-effective.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
While battery-powered trains are an option, current battery technology cannot store enough energy for long-distance travel. Hydrogen, however, provides the range and performance needed for efficient rail transport. It can be produced using renewable electricity, supporting zero-carbon strategies.
Conclusion: A Cleaner Future for Rail
As more companies invest in hydrogen technology, the rail industry is poised for a cleaner future. Hydrogen trains like the Coradia iLint and Hydroflex demonstrate the potential for zero-emission rail travel, setting the stage for broader adoption of sustainable fuel solutions.