Germany to invest €227M on rail electrification, focus on batteries and hydrogen.
The BMVI is implementing another measure of its Electrification ProgrammePlus: the promotion of alternative drive systems in rail transport. The first call for funding will be published. The focus is on drives based on batteries and hydrogen.
Andreas Scheuer, Federal Minister:
In order to be even more environmentally friendly on the road, we are continuing to put rail under power – and replacing diesel locomotives with clean vehicles with batteries and fuel cells.
“In addition, we promote the necessary charging and refuelling infrastructure. 227 million euros are available for the procurement of innovative rail vehicles.”
Germany to Invest €227M on Rail Electrification, Focus on Batteries and Hydrogen
The funding is provided:
- the procurement of innovative rail vehicles or the conversion to alternative drives, the lines without overhead lines have a significant CO2saving,
- the construction of charging/hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, as well as electrolysis plants for the production of hydrogen,
- Studies on possible applications in the respective route network.
A total of 227 million euros is available for the procurement of the vehicles. Applications within the framework of the first call for funding that has now been launched can be submitted until 31.08.2021.
The BMVI has already funded several development projects for alternative drive systems for railcars in recent years.
The aim of the Electrification Programme Plus is to cover 100% of all train kilometres travelled electrically or climate-neutrally by 2050. To this end, 70% of the rail network is to be equipped with overhead lines. On lines without overhead lines, the trains are to run with alternative drives.
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227 million for alternative drives are available!, June 18, 2021
