Ballard signs deal to supply 1.5 MW hydrogen engines to Sierra Northern

Ballard Power Systems will supply 12 fuel cell modules to Sierra Northern Railway to convert three diesel locomotives into hydrogen-powered units. Delivery is expected during 2025.

Partagez:

Ballard Power Systems announced the signing of a supply agreement with US rail operator Sierra Northern Railway for the provision of hydrogen engines with a total power output of 1.5 MW. The order, confirmed on June 5, covers twelve FCmove®-XD engines intended to retrofit three switching locomotives currently powered by diesel.

A conversion project for three locomotives

The contract forms part of Sierra Northern Railway’s strategy to modernise its rail operations in California. The engines supplied by Ballard will be installed in yard locomotives, replacing diesel propulsion systems with units running exclusively on hydrogen. According to Ballard, this configuration will eliminate local emissions while avoiding infrastructure investments such as overhead catenary lines.

The FCmove®-XD model has been designed for heavy-duty applications. It offers high power density, strong reliability and optimised efficiency under a wide range of operational conditions. The engine is positioned as a direct replacement for diesel motors on non-electrified rail routes.

Rail segment targeted by Ballard

This contract adds to Ballard’s recent efforts to expand the use of its technologies across the North American rail sector. Randy MacEwen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ballard Power Systems, stated that the new order “reinforces the company’s momentum” in the freight rail market.

Kennan H. Beard III, President of Sierra Northern Railway, confirmed that the integration of hydrogen modules supports the company’s performance goals and regulatory compliance. The operator noted that the project is aligned with California state targets for the transport sector.

Trains powered by Ballard’s fuel cells offer extended range, rapid refuelling and can operate across various routes, including under challenging weather conditions.

Singapore-based hydrogen specialist Hydrexia seals a protocol with Indonesian gas giant Samator to deploy purification, transport and storage of hydrogen, betting on rapidly growing local demand and export outlets to the Asia-Pacific region.
Cadiz Inc. signs a memorandum of understanding with British company Hoku Energy for a large-scale energy project including green hydrogen, solar power, and digital infrastructure in the Californian desert, projecting annual revenues of up to $10mn.
The Polish energy group ORLEN receives a non-repayable grant of €382 million from the National Recovery Plan to finance its renewable and low-emission hydrogen production initiatives.
Georgia Power and Mitsubishi Power announce successful completion of an unprecedented test incorporating 50% hydrogen into an advanced gas turbine, reducing CO2 emissions by 22% compared to natural gas alone.
Neoenergia has begun construction of one of Brazil's first green hydrogen plants, aimed at supplying heavy and light vehicles, with an investment exceeding 30 million Brazilian reais ($5.99mn).
The SA-H2 fund, supported by international partnerships and local institutional backing, mobilises 37 million USD to develop export-oriented green hydrogen from South Africa, with an initial concrete project announced.
Turbotech reports successful combustion testing of a hydrogen turboprop, developed through digital simulation with Ansys, marking an industrial milestone in light aircraft using alternative fuel.
France Hydrogène responds to the Cour des Comptes report published on June 5, criticising an incomplete reading of updated targets and the economic impacts of decarbonised hydrogen development.
The Belfort Commercial Court has opened a judicial reorganisation procedure for McPhy, while a renewed call for tenders for its asset sale is now set to close on 13 June.
Plug Power CFO Paul Middleton acquired 650,000 shares on the market, affirming his support for the long-term strategy of the hydrogen-focused company.
The Canadian government is funding an initiative to support 40 SMEs in British Columbia’s hydrogen sector, aiming to increase foreign investment and expand international market share.
Developer CWP Global has paused its $40 billion AMAN project in Mauritania due to a lack of buyers for green ammonia despite favourable local conditions.
A study reveals that the profitability of African green hydrogen exports to the European Union depends on political support from Europe, despite the abundance of ongoing projects on the continent.
Plug Power expands its partnership with Allied Green through a new 2 GW electrolyzer deal tied to a $5.5bn chemical plant in Uzbekistan.
Stargate Hydrogen launches 140 MW factory in Estonia with modular expansion model amid cautious hydrogen investment climate.
The European Commission is considering legal action over RED III delays, as regulatory uncertainty slows renewable hydrogen projects and Union-wide investment.
The Cour des comptes warns of the gap between France’s hydrogen ambitions and the reality of funding and available industrial capacity.
Vallourec announces the official qualification of its vertical hydrogen storage solution Delphy by DNV, marking a decisive step towards the commercialisation of this innovative technology.
Chinese group Envision Energy has signed a strategic agreement with Marubeni to supply green ammonia, marking a major milestone in energy trade between China and Japan.
HDF Energy signed two protocols with Indonesian public partners to support the financing and deployment of 23 green hydrogen power plants during Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Jakarta.