Analysis of hydrogen-powered propulsion system alternatives for diesel-electric regional trains

Kapetanović, M.; Nunez, Alfredo; van Oort, N.; Goverde, R.M.P.

doi:10.1016/j.jrtpm.2022.100338

Analysis of hydrogen-powered propulsion system alternatives for diesel-electric regional trains

Title

Analysis of hydrogen-powered propulsion system alternatives for diesel-electric regional trains

Author

Kapetanović, M. (TU Delft Transport and Planning)
Nunez, Alfredo (TU Delft Railway Engineering)
van Oort, N. (TU Delft Transport and Planning)
Goverde, R.M.P. (TU Delft Transport and Planning)

Date

2022

Abstract

Non-electrified regional railway lines with typically employed diesel-electric multiple units require alternative propulsion systems to meet increasingly strict emissions regulations. With the aim to identify an optimal alternative to conventional diesel traction, this paper presents a model-based assessment of hydrogen-powered propulsion systems with an internal combustion engine or fuel cells as the prime mover, combined with different energy storage system configurations, based on lithium-ion batteries and/or double-layer capacitors. The analysis encompasses technology identification, design, modelling and assessment of alternative powertrains, explicitly considering case-related constraints imposed by the infrastructure, technical and operational requirements. Using a regional railway network in the Netherlands as a case, we investigate the possibilities in converting a conventional benchmark vehicle and provide the railway undertaking and decision-makers with valuable input for planning of future rolling stock investments. The results indicate the highest fuel-saving potential for fuel cell-based hybrid propulsion systems with lithium-ion battery or a hybrid energy storage system that combines both energy storage system technologies. The two configurations also demonstrate the highest reduction of greenhouse gas emissions compared to the benchmark diesel-driven vehicle, by about 25% for hydrogen produced by steam methane reforming, and about 19% for hydrogen obtained from electrolysis of water with grey electricity.

Subject

Diesel-electric multiple unit
Energy management and control strategy
Environmental sustainability
Hybridization
Hydrogen propulsion systems
Regional railways

To reference this document use:

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:674951b9-8a0b-41f6-b164-53e544b79cb6

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrtpm.2022.100338

ISSN

2210-9706

Source

Journal of Rail Transport Planning & Management, 23

Part of collection

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