University’s rail project aims to make freight industry greener

The University of Derby is working on an innovative rail project, which aims to make the freight industry more eco-friendly.

Working with Clayton Equipment, the pilot project aims to explore the use of hydrogen fuel cell technology in the rail freight industry, which experts believe has the potential to create opportunities within the local supply chain.

Funded by the East Midlands Investment Zone, the project looks at the future propulsion of rail and supporting a move away from using diesel as a source of fuel for ‘shunter wagons’ – freight trains used to manoeuvre goods vehicles.

The feasibility study evaluates the potential for converting a diesel-hybrid shunting locomotive into a zero-emission fuel-cell hybrid system.

As part of the project, Rahim Marjani, a researcher in railway systems innovation at the University of Derby, has developed a digital twin simulation model to analyse locomotive journeys.

The demonstrator allows journeys to be modelled against different operating scenarios, accounting for parameters including refuelling and stopping.

He said: “Additional solutions are needed as organisations look to move away from diesel to a more carbon efficient source of power.

“Extending the range of zero carbon propulsion options provides future market opportunities, driving demand which in turn creates opportunities for related skills within the local supply chain.

“Fuel cell technology, already proven in cars and passenger trains, offers a highly efficient, zero-emission power source with comparable refuelling times and range to diesel engines.

“By adapting this technology to shunting locomotives, the project provides a sustainable solution aligned with the UK’s Net Zero Carbon targets.

“A simulation model will estimate daily energy demands and potential emission reductions while evaluating hydrogen storage capacity and fuel cell performance.”

Although the project’s main focus is to look at propulsion in the context of shunters moving wagons within freight facilities, the researchers believe it has the potential for wider application and are set to create guidelines for future manufacturing.

The project is supported by East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) and is the first of 15 pilot projects to be supported by the new combined county authority in 2025.

Councillor Neghat Khan, portfolio holder for investment at EMCCA, said: “By supporting initiatives like this, the East Midlands Combined County Authority aims to create a robust ecosystem that enhances the East Midlands’ position as a leader in green and advanced manufacturing sectors.

“The collaboration between the University of Derby and Clayton Equipment is a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships in achieving our region’s Net Zero Carbon targets and boosting the local supply chain.”