Hydrogen in Transportation

The use of non-petroleum-based fuel alternatives such as natural gas, biofuels, hydrogen, and electricity is increasing. In the transportation sector, the use of green hydrogen has been explored for climate-friendly or climate-neutral transportation, both for passenger rail operations and heavy commercial transport.

Germany attempted to transition to hydrogen trains in 2022, but by 2023 decided that electric would be a cheaper way to achieve its climate goals. Still, Italy has allocated money to advancing its hydrogen sector. In February 2024, Caltrans signed a $127 million agreement for a total of 10 hydrogen-powered trains to create the first U.S. intercity hydrogen train service. However, concerns over high costs, the amount of energy required to extract hydrogen, and a lack of infrastructure are hampering implementation. Planners should stay aware of developments in this space and how they could change the future of climate-friendly transportation.