Latest news with #SierraNorthernRailway
Forbes
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
Reformed Carbon 4: Hydrogen Railroad Full Steam Ahead In California
The Railroad The Sierra Railroad Company (SRC), established in 1897, is one of California's oldest operating railroads, with a fleet of 42 locomotives. The company has a remarkable story of innovation in decarbonizing its fleet, as detailed in a previous Reformed Carbon series article. To recap: SRC began exploring alternative fuel sources in response to California's energy crisis in the early 2000s, when its leadership recognized that locomotives could serve not only as transportation assets but also as mobile generators—a concept they referred to as a 'powertrain.' To power these locomotives sustainably, SRC initially transitioned to biodiesel. Seeking further decarbonization, the company turned to hydrogen production using gasifier technology fueled by bio-derived and waste feedstocks. It acquired the licensing and constructed a plant at Fort Hunter Liggett in Monterey County, California. This facility produces hydrogen via high-temperature gasification, operating at 4,000°F. The FastOx process uses steam and oxygen to break down waste at the molecular level. To realize its vision, SRC converted a diesel locomotive—Sierra Northern Railway (SERA) 193—into a hydrogen fuel cell-powered unit at its West Sacramento yard. Together, these initiatives present a compelling, self-reliant business case for a localized, vertically integrated hydrogen railroad hub—from feedstock to fuel to fleet. SERA 193 hydrogen fuel-cell locomotive converted from its diesel version Locomotive modification: SERA 193 – First-Generation Hydrogen Locomotive The company's first-generation hydrogen locomotive, SERA 193, was developed by retrofitting a standard GE RP20BD freight locomotive. Originally powered by three Deutz V8 diesel engines with a combined output of approximately 1,500 horsepower, the unit was transformed into a modular, zero-emission platform. This conversion marked a significant step in Sierra Northern Railway's effort to modernize rail propulsion using hydrogen fuel cell technology. Rather than relying on an external contractor, the design and engineering of the locomotive were carried out in-house by Sierra Northern Railway, working closely with a network of technical partners and engineers. The SERA project was enabled by a $4M California Energy Commission award in 2021 propping the design, integration, and demonstration of a prototype hydrogen fuel cell switching locomotive. GTI Energy has been a key partner to Sierra Northern Railway on the locomotive projects, leveraging their extensive experience in demonstrating and de-risking transformative technologies. Since the project began, GTI Energy has supported SNR with know-how in hydrogen fueling, safety, industry connections, and more. The success of the collaboration speaks for itself – the first locomotive is running in revenue service in West Sacramento, and work on the next three locomotives is well underway. The retrofit process involved removing the original hood and prime mover—the large diesel engine and generator that traditionally power the locomotive—leaving behind a long, open deck and the existing operator cab. Importantly, the core structural and safety-critical components were retained, including the wheels (known as "trucks"), the deck, the cab, and the braking systems. These elements are heavily regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). By preserving them, the locomotive maintained its crashworthiness and regulatory compliance, avoiding the need for retesting of core safety systems. The FRA does not require reevaluation for changes related to the propulsion system, allowing innovation to proceed more efficiently. The cleared platform of the locomotive was outfitted with a series of modular components—including fuel cells, batteries, hydrogen storage tanks, and cooling systems—all designed for straightforward handling, installation, and integration. This modular approach allowed individual systems to be developed and tested independently with partners such as Ballard, who supplied the fuel cells. Once each component was completed, it was craned into place, secured, and connected on-site, streamlining assembly and ensuring system-level flexibility. The new propulsion system is centered around two 100 kW fuel cell modules provided by Ballard, giving the locomotive a total fuel cell output of 200 kW (about 268 horsepower). This is complemented by a 415 kWh battery pack that supports hybrid propulsion and energy buffering. The combined powerplant performance will have the peak power of about 1500 horsepower. Hydrogen is stored onboard in high-pressure Type IV composite tanks rated for 350 bar (approximately 5,000 psi), with a total hydrogen capacity of 207 kilograms. This modular approach enabled parallel development and simplified maintenance and upgrades. From the outset, the project was closely coordinated with the FRA and relevant safety agencies to address the unique requirements of hydrogen propulsion. The effort was supported by funding from the California Energy Commission and included extensive safety testing and compliance measures. The locomotive's weight prior to modification was approximately 260,000 pounds. After conversion, the total loaded weight dropped to around 240,000 pounds. The fuel cell locomotive has turned out to be 20,000 lbs or 8% lighter than its own diesel variant. To manage traction and optimize performance, the locomotive design includes the option to add ballast—either by embedding concrete in the floor or installing steel plates—to increase weight and improve wheel-rail contact. However, this has not been necessary to date, thanks to advanced wheel-slip control technology provided by RailPower. Their computer-controlled traction system enables precise management of wheel slip, allowing even lighter locomotives to effectively pull heavier loads. To strengthen its manufacturing capabilities with the future hydrogen locomotive conversions, SERA acquired RailPower earlier this year. Significant driver for the acquisition was its proven engineering expertise that directly supports the broader goal of manufacturing both hydrogen gasifiers and zero-emission locomotives in-house. Fueling the Locomotive The locomotive is expected to operate for approximately one to one and a half weeks per fill under typical duty cycles at the Port of West Sacramento. SERA's local operations run two to four days per week, with shifts lasting roughly eight hours. Under this usage, the hydrogen-powered locomotive is projected to displace around 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually. Hydrogen for SERA 193 locomotive is delivered by truck in compressed form, transported in high-pressure tube trailers from Fort Hunter Liggett, with a driving distance of approximately 250 miles to West Sacramento. Each delivery brings up to 200 kilograms of hydrogen to the West Sacramento fueling site. The hydrogen is stored onboard the locomotive at a working pressure of approximately 350 bar (5,000 psi), while the tube trailers arrive with hydrogen pressurized at 450–520 bar (6,500–7,500 psi) to enable efficient transfer. Refueling follows a cascade transfer model, where hydrogen flows from the higher-pressure trailer storage to the lower-pressure locomotive tanks without the need for mechanical compression. This setup ensures reliable, safe and simplified fueling. Deliveries are scheduled as needed, based on locomotive usage. Fuel cell locomotive modular design concept The Next Generation Looking ahead, SERA plans to develop and test three more next-generation locomotives with enhanced performance capabilities. A 2023 grant from the California State Transportation Authority, in collaboration with other agencies, has advanced the project with $19.5 million in funding. Each locomotive will be designed to deliver approximately 2,000 horsepower and will be equipped with four 120 kW fuel cells, for a total power output of 480 kW. Hydrogen storage capacity will increase to 400 kilograms per locomotive, and battery capacity will be expanded beyond the 415 kWh installed in the first-generation unit. These upgrades aim to improve operational range, power output, and system efficiency to meet the demands of future rail operations. Looking further ahead, SERA plans to convert up to 20 locomotives to run on hydrogen. In its June 2025 press release, Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP;) announced a new supply agreement with SERA for the delivery of 1.5 MW of fuel cell engines, expected later in 2025. Under the agreement, Ballard will provide 12 FCmove®-XD engines—four for each of three locomotives. These modules, specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, offer high reliability, durability, efficiency, and power density. I am excited and proud to see this technology in action. It enhances operational performance with lower-emission fuels and supports the growing hydrogen economy in California, advancing the state's goals. I look forward to seeing more of these locomotives on the tracksNetwork Expansion to Five Plants The Sierra Line—which runs through Tuolumne and Stanislaus counties—serves a key role in biomass logistics. In Tuolumne County, there is a centralized location where biomass and trash from five counties converges, arriving by both highway and rail. This site will likely serve as the consolidation point for the biomass needed to supply the gasification facilities, from which it will be transported by rail. From there SRC plans to build five 100 ton per day distributed gasifier-to-hydrogen plants and fuel up to 20 locomotives and other customers there. The corresponding hydrogen station in-house development is underway but has not been finalized to date. Through these innovations, the Sierra Railroad Company has demonstrated a comprehensive, closed-loop solution for converting waste into clean energy —paving the way for a more sustainable future in both railroad transportation and energy production.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ballard Power to supply fuel cell engines to Sierra Northern Railway
Ballard Power Systems has signed a supply agreement with Sierra Northern Railway for 1.5MW of fuel cell engines, with delivery expected in 2025. The agreement is part of Sierra Northern Railway's decarbonisation strategy in California. Ballard will provide 12 FCmove-XD engines to retrofit three diesel locomotives, transitioning them to hydrogen power for zero-emission operations. The FCmove-XD modules are designed for heavy-duty applications and are a cost-effective alternative to overhead catenary systems and providing high reliability, durability, efficiency, and power density. Ballard Power Systems CEO and president Randy MacEwen said: 'We are thrilled to collaborate with Sierra Northern Railway on this groundbreaking project. 'This partnership underscores the versatility of our industry leading fuel cell technology and the critical role fuel cells can play in advancing sustainable rail solutions. We are excited to continue Ballard's momentum in decarbonising the North American freight rail sector.' Ballard fuel cells provide a sustainable solution for rail operations, delivering long-range, fast refuelling, and adaptable service across various routes and conditions. Sierra Northern Railway president Kennan H. Beard III said: 'Integrating Ballard's fuel cell modules into our switching locomotives aligns with our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. '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.' In April this year, Sierra Northern Railway completed tests for a four-axle, hydrogen-fuelled, zero-emission switching locomotive in West Sacramento, California. The development of this locomotive received a $4m investment from the California Energy Commission, with GTI Energy managing the project. This funding supports the design, integration, and demonstration phases, marking an essential contribution to California's clean transportation goals. "Ballard Power to supply fuel cell engines to Sierra Northern Railway" was originally created and published by Railway Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Cision Canada
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Cision Canada
Ballard announces 1.5 MW fuel cell engine order for Sierra Northern Railway
VANCOUVER, BC, June 5, 2025 /CNW/ - Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP) (TSX: BLDP) today announced the signing of a new supply agreement with California-based rail operator Sierra Northern Railway ( for the supply of 1.5 MW of fuel cell engines, expected to be delivered in 2025. As part of Sierra Northern Railway'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 FCmove ® -XD modules are specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, offering high reliability, durability, efficiency and power density, and provide the benefits of zero emissions without the need for costly overhead catenary systems. "We are thrilled to collaborate with Sierra Northern Railway on this groundbreaking project" said Randy MacEwen, President and CEO of Ballard Power Systems. "This partnership underscores the versatility of our industry leading fuel cell technology and the critical role fuel cells can play in advancing sustainable rail solutions. We are excited to continue Ballard's momentum in decarbonizing the North American freight rail sector." Kennan H. Beard III, President of Sierra Northern Railway commented, "Integrating Ballard's fuel cell modules into our switching locomotives aligns with our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. 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 1:1 replacement of diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines. About Ballard Power Systems Ballard Power Systems' (NASDAQ: BLDP; TSX: BLDP) vision is to deliver fuel cell power for a sustainable planet. Ballard zero-emission PEM fuel cells are enabling electrification of mobility, including buses, commercial trucks, trains, marine vessels, and stationary power. To learn more about Ballard, please visit This release contains forward-looking statements concerning anticipated product deliveries, customer deployments, and customer benefits and market adoption of our products. These forward-looking statements reflect Ballard's current expectations as contemplated under section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any such forward-looking statements are based on Ballard's assumptions relating to its financial forecasts and expectations regarding its product development efforts, manufacturing capacity, and market demand. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause Ballard's actual results to be materially different, including general economic and regulatory changes, detrimental reliance on third parties, successfully achieving our business plans and achieving and sustaining profitability. For a detailed discussion of these and other risk factors that could affect Ballard's future performance, please refer to Ballard's most recent Annual Information Form. Readers should not place undue reliance on Ballard's forward-looking statements and Ballard assumes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements, other than as required under applicable legislation. About Sierra Northern Railway Sierra Northern Railway (SERA) is the freight division of privately owned, Sierra Railroad Company. Sierra Railroad Company is also the principal owner of Sierra Energy Corporation, which has developed a proprietary waste- to- clean hydrogen technology: FastOx® gasification. Sierra Northern Railway currently operates approximately 75 miles of track in Northern California and 30 miles in Southern California through the heart of a number of the Golden State's prime industrial areas, serving a wide variety of customers, and interchanging with both BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad.
Associated Press
07-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
SIERRA NORTHERN RAILWAY ACQUIRES THE ASSETS OF RAILPOWER LLC A GROUNDBREAKING STEP TOWARD REVOLUTIONIZING RAIL TRANSPORTATION WITH CLEAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sierra Northern Railway (SNR), a division of Sierra Railroad Company, has announced its acquisition of the assets of RailPower LLC, a groundbreaking step toward revolutionizing rail transportation with clean energy solutions. SNR, already a leader in hydrogen-fueled locomotive technology and the owner of the largest RailPower locomotive fleet in America, is poised to integrate RailPower's hybrid innovations with its hydrogen expertise. RailPower has a strong legacy, having produced approximately 190 locomotives, including 55 GG20B hybrid switchers, 116 RP20BD genset locomotives, and other models like the GG10B, GK10B, RP14BD, and RP20SD. These locomotives are recognized for their fuel efficiency and low emissions, serving industrial switching, short-line railroads, and port operations across North America. SNR plans to build its hydrogen locomotives on RailPower's proven platform, initially targeting the 260 locomotives used by shortline railroads in California. This initiative combines the strengths of both companies to offer cutting-edge, zero-emission rail solutions tailored to industry needs. The development of SNR's first hydrogen locomotives was made possible through key partnerships with the California Energy Commission (CEC) and the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA). With significant funding and support from these organizations, SNR successfully designed and built its hydrogen locomotive prototypes, demonstrating the feasibility of renewable hydrogen as a clean fuel source for rail operations. This acquisition underscores Sierra Railroad Company's commitment to advancing sustainable transportation technologies while supporting California's ambitious climate goals. By merging RailPower's hybrid expertise with Sierra Northern Railway's hydrogen technology, the company aims to lead the rail industry into a new era of clean, efficient, and innovative rail transport. Sierra Northern Railway (SERA): Sierra Northern Railway is the freight division of privately owned, Sierra Railroad Company. Sierra Railroad Company is also the principal owner of Sierra Energy Corporation, which has developed a proprietary waste- to- clean hydrogen technology: FastOx® gasification. Sierra Northern Railway currently operates approximately 75 miles of track in Northern California and 30 miles in Southern California through the heart of a number of the Golden State's prime industrial areas, serving a wide variety of customers, and interchanging with both BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad.
