In an effort to embrace a greener footprint, the MBTA Commuter Rail has begun testing locomotives running on renewable diesel. More specifically, as reported by MassLive, these trains are utilizing Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) which is derived from vegetable oil and animal fats. The switch to HVO is part of a pilot program designed to reduce carbon emissions and help Massachusetts achieve its goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The introduction of HVO could mark a significant drop in the carbon footprint of the commuter rail system, as trains using this form of fuel could see carbon emissions fall by 70% compared to their fossil fuel-guzzling counterparts. "Getting people out of their cars and onto the train is a great first step, and we need to do more if we are going to reach the commonwealth’s emissions goals," Keolis CEO and General Manager Abdellah Chajai told Railway Age. The pilot is under observation at the Newburyport Commuter Rail facility, where all trains that layover are participating in this green initiative.
Early reports from Keolis, who operate and maintain the MBTA Commuter Rail on behalf of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, indicate that train performance has remained "steady" using HVO. The pilot's findings will be crucial in determining whether the use of this renewable diesel can be expanded throughout the commuter rail system. In addition to this initiative, MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng highlighted the transit authority's continuous search for methods to lower their carbon output, coupling this pilot with other efforts for a more resilient and environmentally friendly system.
Beyond the vegetable oil pilot program, the MBTA is exploring electrification options with the approval of a $54 million plan to introduce battery-electric multiple-unit (BEMU) service to the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line. The forward-thinking move saw Keolis issue a Request for Proposals earlier this year, aiming to procure the new BEMUs. This approach not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but acknowledges a commitment to innovation and sustainability.
