Amtrak Takes a Leap: Issues Request for Information on Zero Emissions Technology for Rail Fleet

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Amtrak has released a Request for Information (RFI) to explore avenues for transitioning its rail fleet to zero-emissions technology. This significant move signifies advancement toward Amtrak’s overarching objective of eradicating emissions associated with powering its trains. Amtrak’s trains, already recognized as one of the most eco-friendly modes of travel for numerous journeys, stand to further enhance their sustainability through this initiative.

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“Finding the cleanest technologies to carry customers across our vast network will be transformative as we deliver a new era of rail,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “We are excited to take this important step toward providing safe and reliable service with a smaller impact on the environment.”

All interested parties are encouraged to respond to the RFI, aligning with the US National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization by 2050. At the core of Amtrak’s Climate Commitment lies the aspiration to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2045. To realize this ambitious objective, the company has taken several measures:

• Pledged to double ridership from 2019 levels to 66 million riders per year by 2040, thereby displacing more energy-intensive cars and plane trips.
• Procured over half of its electricity from carbon-free sources, with the aim of reaching 100% by 2030.
• Assisted California partners in transitioning to renewable diesel (RD) on Amtrak Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner, and San Joaquins trains in May 2023.
• Placed orders for:
• 83 new Amtrak Airo trains, set to operate on the fully-electrified Northeast Corridor and nationwide routes, resulting in 90% fewer particulate emissions in diesel operations.
• 28 new all-electric, high-speed Acela trains designed to consume 40% less energy per passenger compared to the existing Acela fleet.
• Siemens Charger locomotives, compliant with EPA Tier 4 standards, substantially decrease criteria air pollutants (CAP) in comparison to existing equipment.

A significant portion of Amtrak’s passenger fleet already operates on zero-emission equipment, including 108 electric Northeast Regional and Acela locomotives. When powered by carbon-free electricity, these electric locomotives emit no emissions. The findings from the RFI will guide Amtrak’s future decisions in procuring the most energy-efficient and environmentally friendly fleet for deployment across its network.

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