The Romanian Railway Reform Authority(RRA) has reported the cancellation of the tender for the purchase of twelve hydrogen trains with fuel cell electric bases. Although many EU countries are adopting zero-emission mobility solutions, progress has been slower in Romania.
Hydrogen trains suspended in Romania
The tender, valued at 174 million euros, was automatically cancelled due to the lack of bids from railway operators. In February 2023, the auction was cancelled for the first time due to the same reason, and in November, the only bid submitted by the consortium of Alstom and the Romanian subsidiary of Linde Gas was rejected for not meeting the established requirements.
According to RRA, hydrogen train manufacturers are reluctant to participate because of the implementation deadlines required by the authorities. In addition, industry representatives criticize that the technical documentation requirements are too stringent and cannot be met by any manufacturer at present.
Following this new setback, RRA will conduct further market consultations to define a future strategy for the procurement of the 12 hydrogen-powered trains. hydrogen-powered trains. .
Green hydrogen participation in Romania
Currently, green hydrogen production in Romania is considered a complementary option in the process of economic and industrial decarbonization. The country continues to rely heavily on fossil fuel imports for its activities.
An ICEX report shows that the progress of a hydrogen production infrastructure in Romania in the medium term will depend on three important factors. Firstly, the strategy adopted by the national authorities will be decisive. The state of production technology will also be essential. Finally, the price of green hydrogen production will be the most decisive factor.
Depending on the pace of implementation of hydrogen technologies, renewable gas will go to industries that are difficult to decarbonize, such as the chemical industry, the steel industry and centralized heating systems.
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Source: Hidrogeno Verde
Photo: Shutterstock