Orlen is testing the first hydrogen locomotive in Poland

ORLEN is dedicated to advancing technology in the transportation sector. The company has acquired a state-of-the-art hydrogen locomotive from PESA Bydgoszcz, making it the first hydrogen-powered vehicle of this kind in Poland. Presently, tests are underway to evaluate the performance and feasibility of this hydrogen-powered locomotive. This move aligns with the company’s commitment to exploring sustainable and innovative solutions in the transportation industry.

The inaugural journey of a hydrogen locomotive occurred along the Gdynia – Hel route. This initiative is in line with the ORLEN Group’s strategic plan, which includes the implementation of hydrogen technology in the railway and public transportation sectors. The company has committed to investing PLN 7.4 billion in hydrogen technologies derived from renewable energy sources and technology for converting municipal waste into hydrogen by 2030. This substantial investment reflects ORLEN’s dedication to advancing sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in the transportation and energy sectors.

Hydrogen locomotive and refueling stations

The President of the ORLEN Management Board, Daniel Obajtek, has emphasized the company’s commitment to long-term development and a strong position in Europe by investing in alternative fuels, particularly hydrogen. The acquisition of the first hydrogen locomotive in Poland marks a significant step towards the commercialization of this technology and reinforces ORLEN’s presence in the automotive sector.

ORLEN also has plans to supply hydrogen fuel to the railway market, contributing to the transformation of the Polish railway sector through the adoption of modern technologies. Simultaneously, the company is making investments in the development of zero-emission public transportation, with plans to establish hydrogen refueling stations accessible to the public in Poland and internationally.

The hydrogen locomotive procured by ORLEN is intended for use on the tracks of the Production Plant in Płock and is currently undergoing testing. Its larger hydrogen storage capacity, compared to hydrogen-powered buses, enables continuous operation. The locomotive’s propulsion system is based on two 85 kW fuel cells, a battery, and four traction motors.

Both ORLEN and LOTOS Kolej have plans to transition their locomotive fleets to hydrogen power at the Production Plant in Płock and other locations. Additionally, the companies intend to expand the market for hydrogen sales and create a network of hydrogen refueling stations for railway vehicles.

As part of the hydrogen strategy through 2030, the ORLEN Group is establishing a network of publicly accessible hydrogen refueling stations in Poland and abroad. The company has launched specialized hydrogen laboratories in Trzebinia and Włocławek, which are the only facilities in Poland capable of testing all hydrogen parameters required to power fuel cells in vehicles. This demonstrates ORLEN’s commitment to advancing hydrogen technology and its applications in various sectors.

Hydrogen Valleys

ORLEN has taken the leadership role in two Hydrogen Valleys, namely the Masovia and Amber Hydrogen Valleys. The Amber Hydrogen Valley project encompasses various components, including sources for renewable hydrogen production, the establishment of refueling stations in Gdynia, as well as refueling stations in cities across Pomerania.

Additionally, the project entails the introduction of a fleet of hydrogen-powered vehicles designed to serve the port of Gdynia. Investments are also planned for a range of hydrogen vehicles, including passenger cars and delivery vans. These initiatives highlight ORLEN’s active involvement in advancing hydrogen technology and its applications, particularly in the transportation sector.

Source: Orlen