Dutch test hydrogen train as EU alliance set to launch

(EurActiv, 9 Mar 2020) The Netherlands wrapped up testing on its first foray into hydrogen train technology at the weekend, as the European Commission readies a strategy for the clean fuel that will debut on Tuesday (10 March).

French train maker Alstom completed 10 days of testing in the north of the country – between the cities of Groningen and Leeuwarden – as Dutch railways aim to follow its German counterpart in operating an all-hydrogen train service.

In September 2018, the world’s first purely hydrogen-powered passenger locomotive left the station in Lower Saxony and has served the Buxtehude-Cuxhaven line ever since. Alstom has been contracted to provide more trains as a result.

Successful night tests in the Netherlands have moved the Dutch ambitions closer to fruition. Trains have been run at speed but without passengers, while refuelling was made possible by French energy firm Engie, which provided the green hydrogen.

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EurActiv, 9 Mar 2020: Dutch test hydrogen train as EU alliance set to launch