Ballard to supply Sierra Northern Railway with 12 fuel cell engines

Ballard Power Systems today announced the signing of a new supply agreement with California-based rail operator Sierra Northern Railway for the supply of 1.5-megawatt fuel cell engines expected to be delivered in 2025.

As part of Sierra Northern's efforts to decarbonize its operations across California, 12 Ballard FCmove^®-XD engines will be supplied to convert three diesel switching locomotives to hydrogen-fueled, zero-emission locomotives. The modules are designed for heavy-duty applications and provide the benefits of zero emissions without the need for costly overhead catenary systems, according to a Ballard-issued press release. 

"Integrating Ballard's fuel cell modules into our switching locomotives aligns with our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship," said Sierra Northern Railway President Kennan Beard III in the press release. "This initiative not only enhances our operational efficiency but is also a pivotal step in California's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector."

Trains powered by Ballard fuel cells offer safe and reliable zero-emission operations, including long range, fast refueling and flexible operation across a wide variety of routes and environmental conditions, acting as a one-to-one replacement of diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines, Ballard officials said.