Sierra Northern Railway's freight division, SERA, has successfully conducted testing on a four-axle hydrogen-fueled switching locomotive in West Sacramento, California. The demonstration aimed to showcase the potential of hydrogen power in decarbonizing freight transportation by replacing fossil-fueled trains. The President of Sierra Northern Railway, Kennan H. Beard III, highlighted the success of the test and emphasized the significance of transitioning from diesel to hydrogen-powered locomotives for environmental benefits. The project, funded by a $4,000,000 grant from the California Energy Commission, is part of efforts to design, integrate, and demonstrate hydrogen fuel cell switching locomotives. By transitioning to hydrogen, Sierra Northern Railway aims to reduce over 12 million gallons of diesel per year, equivalent to the annual fuel consumption of 20,000 light-duty vehicles. With plans to build three additional hydrogen-fueled switcher locomotives, Sierra is advancing its commitment to zero emissions with support from various public and private entities like the California State Transportation Agency and the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. The total project cost for expanding the hydrogen-powered fleet is estimated at $19,500,000. By the project's completion in Q4 2027, Sierra Northern Railway aims to convert its entire fleet to hydrogen power, contributing to a more sustainable transportation sector in California and beyond.