ORLEN acquires Poland’s first hydrogen-powered locomotive

As part of the operational tests, the locomotive made its maiden voyage between Gdynia and Hel, Poland. This marks yet another project aligned with the ORLEN Group’s hydrogen strategy to use hydrogen in rail and public transport. The Group plans to invest PLN (zl) 7.4 billion by 2030 in hydrogen technologies based on renewable energy sources and waste-to-hydrogen technology.

Daniel Obajtek, ORLEN’s CEO and President of the Management Board, said: "As part of our strategic goals, we are actively pursuing business projects that not only contribute to our sustained growth and strong presence in Europe but also align with our strategy to enhance energy security for the people of Poland. Central to this process is the advancement of alternative fuels, particularly hydrogen. We are investing billions of zlotys in cutting-edge hydrogen technologies. The purchase from PESA Bydgoszcz of Poland’s first hydrogen-powered locomotive marks a big step in the commercialisation of the technology and fortifying our position in a sector that undoubtedly is the future of mobility."

The contract between ORLEN and PESA Bydgoszcz includes a four-year maintenance and servicing package encompassing routine maintenance and potential repairs. At 175 kg, the tank capacity of the locomotive exceeds that of a hydrogen-powered bus by over fivefold, enabling it round-the-clock operation. The traction system features two 85 kW fuel cells, a battery, and four traction motors.

The ORLEN Group is actively expanding its hydrogen potential, and the rail market presents a highly attractive area for the deployment of the fuel. ORLEN and LOTOS Kolej plan to gradually transition their locomotive fleet to hydrogen power, starting at the Plock Production Plant and extending to other locations. In the longer term, the Group’s strategic focus will be on developing a hydrogen sales market and building a network of hydrogen refuelling stations dedicated to railroad vehicles.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalhydrogenreview.com/hydrogen/25092023/orlen-acquires-polands-first-hydrogen-powered-locomotive/