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On track for Net-Zero? The development of hydrogen-powered trains in the UK
19th February 2024 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
With the UK Government having set climate goals to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the need to move away from diesel as fuel is critical. In all sectors, the challenge of clean, efficient energy storage is increasingly present, from electric cars and buses, to powering towns and cities. I will describe the motivation behind developing a hydrogen-powered train, and the benefits and potential drawbacks of hydrogen fuel. I will track the development of the technology across prototype vehicles of increasing size and power developed by the University of Birmingham, culminating with the demonstration of a full-scale passenger train to the (then) Prime Minister and (then) Prince of Wales at the United Nations COP26 Climate Conference in Glasgow. I will give a brief look into the future; When are we likely to see a hydrogen-powered train in service? Is it safe? Why does energy storage matter?
Callum is a Master’s student at the University of Birmingham’s Centre for Railway Research and Education, and a Project Engineer at Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions.
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