The Antofagasta Bolivia Railway (FCAB) has taken an important step towards sustainability by presenting the first hydrogen locomotive in South America . This advance is part of the company’s commitment to contribute to the energy transition and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the region. The locomotive, which will initially be used for internal maneuvers between the city of Antofagasta and the port, promises to be a key tool in the fight against climate change.
Features of the hydrogen locomotive
The locomotive was designed by CRRC Qishuyan Company, taking into account the operational needs of FCAB. With a power output of 1,000 kilowatts, the locomotive features a 35 MPa onboard hydrogen storage system and a large-capacity battery. In addition, its lightweight design reduces the weight by approximately 30 tons compared to conventional locomotives, thus improving energy efficiency.
This project is a breakthrough in rail transport technology and a driver for local innovation. The FCAB has secured the supply of green hydrogen for 2024 and is already in the final stages of enabling the facilities necessary for its operation.
A future with fewer emissions
FCAB’s hydrogen locomotive is an example of technological innovation and an achievement in the global effort to adopt cleaner energy sources. According to Iván Arriagada, Executive Chairman of Antofagasta plc, this initiative is in line with the group’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and advance the decarbonization of transport . The use of green hydrogen, which only emits water vapor and hot air, makes a significant difference compared to fossil fuels such as diesel.
This effort is also part of the objectives of Antofagasta plc, which has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 30% by 2030. The hydrogen locomotive is one of the key pieces on the path to carbon neutrality that Chile has set itself to achieve by 2050.
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Source and photos: Antofagasta Minerals
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