Ontario seeks design ideas for hydrogen-powered GO Transit trains

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation is seeking design concepts for hydrogen-powered trains as an alternative to conventional overhead wires on GO Transit's rail network.

The province has issued a request for proposals for designs that demonstrate how a hydrogen fuel cell system could be integrated into a bi-level electric multiple unit train.

Ontario is undertaking a feasibility study on the use of hydrogen fuel cells as part of planning efforts for GO Transit's Regional Express Rail electrification program.

"Recent advances in the use of hydrogen fuel cells to power electric trains in other jurisdictions makes it important that Ontario consider this clean electric technology as an alternative to conventional overhead wires," Ontario Ministry of Transportation officials said in a press release. "The Hydrogen Rail (Hydrail) Feasibility Study will inform a decision on how Ontario will proceed with the electrification of GO rail services."

Several rail vehicle makers will be commissioned to prepare designs and demonstrate the impact of incorporating hydrogen fuel cells into bi-level trains.