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We all love the idea of trains as a more sustainable way to travel. And adding strength to that notion is Amtrak’s announcement yesterday that it has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to seek options to convert its fleet to zero-emissions technology. It’s yet another step towards Amtrak’s long-range goal of completely eliminating emissions.
Any qualified companies can respond to the RFI with their ideas and proposals. The RFI supports the nation’s 2023 U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization to transition to a decarbonized transportation system.
Amtrak aims to achieve Net Zero emissions by the year 2045 as part of its Climate Commitment. So far, the company reports in its press release that it has taken these steps:
- Committed to doubling ridership from 2019 levels to 66 million riders per year by 2040, displacing more energy-intensive cars and plane trips
- Procured more than half of the company’s electricity from carbon-free sources with the goal of achieving 100 percent by 2030
- Supported California partners in a May 2023 switch to renewable diesel (RD) on Amtrak Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquins trains
- Ordered 83 new Amtrak Airo trains that will operate on the fully-electrified Northeast Corridor and on routes throughout the country, producing 90 percent less particulate emissions in diesel operations
- Ordered 28 new all-electric, high-speed Acela trains that are designed to use 40% less energy per passenger than the existing Acela fleet
- Ordered EPA Tier 4 compliant Siemens Charger locomotives, which significantly reduce criteria air pollutants (CAP) compared to existing equipment
Already, much of the passenger fleet is powered by zero-emission equipment, including 108 electric Northeast Regional and Acela locomotives. Besides being much more environmentally friendly than car, plane or bus travel, a train provides a wonderfully quiet ride that lets you do work while riding or just gaze out the window.