Ballard Power Systems Signs Agreement for Hydrogen-Powered Trains in California
Key Ideas
- Ballard Power Systems has signed a multi-year supply agreement with Stadler US to provide 8 megawatts of hydrogen fuel cell engines for zero-emission passenger trains in California.
- The order supports Caltrans' purchase of 10 FLIRT H2 trains with potential for additional units, contributing to the state's zero-emission passenger rail capabilities.
- The collaboration aims to decarbonize commuter rail transportation in California, offering a zero-emission alternative to diesel engines with comparable performance.
- Stadler's FLIRT H2 train, powered by Ballard's fuel cell engines, can operate on non-electrified routes, reducing the need for costly overhead catenary lines electrification.
Ballard Power Systems has announced a significant development in the realm of sustainable transportation by signing a multi-year supply agreement with Stadler US to provide 8 megawatts of FCmove®-HD+ fuel cell engines. These engines will power the FLIRT H2, a line of zero-emission passenger trains for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The collaboration between Ballard Power Systems and Stadler has been ongoing for over three years, with successful integration of fuel cell engines into the FLIRT H2, making it the first FRA compliant hydrogen fuel cell powered passenger train in the United States.
The order from Caltrans includes 10 FLIRT H2 trains initially, with a potential option for 19 additional trains. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing California's zero-emission passenger rail capabilities. Randy MacEwen, the CEO of Ballard Power Systems, expressed excitement in deepening the partnership with Stadler to support the decarbonization of commuter rail transportation in California. The shift to fuel cells from diesel engines offers comparable performance in terms of payload, range, reliability, and refueling times.
Stadler's CEO, Martin Ritter, highlighted the importance of the FLIRT H2 train in replacing diesel trains on non-electrified lines, providing emission-free passenger transport without the need for costly overhead catenary lines electrification. This advancement aligns with California's zero-emission goals and represents a milestone in sustainable mobility.
Ballard Power Systems, known for its vision of delivering fuel cell power for a sustainable planet, aims to enable electrification of various modes of transportation, including buses, trucks, trains, and marine vessels. The collaboration with Stadler and Caltrans signifies a significant progress towards achieving a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation sector.