20 September — Sustainable Solutions and Policies to Decarbonize the Freight Rail

Date: 20 September 2021
Time: 12:00pm ET
Location: Wean Hall 3701 & via Zoom
Speaker: John Lovenburg
Topic: Sustainable Solutions and Policies to Decarbonize the Freight Rail

Abstract: The large freight railroads in North American have committed to science-based carbon targets that can be achieved through improved efficiency and carbon intensity reduction measures. Increased use of renewable diesel reduces carbon intensity. Fuel efficiency options include operational practices, leveraging of technologies, and alternative energy including batteries and hydrogen. Battery-electric locomotives will be used as a case study to illustrate technical challenges; describe partnerships; and demonstrate the development pathway from R&D, to piloting, commercial prove-out and scaling. Targeted government policies can accelerate commercialization including capital grant subsidies for early adopters, and carbon pricing and policies to incentivize manufacturer investments.