In the United States (US), Union Pacific Railroad (UNP) has announced that it will begin using a higher biodiesel blend in locomotives it acquired from Wabtec Corporation (Wabtec). The new collaboration helps Union Pacific as it works to increase the percentage of low-carbon fuels consumed to 10 percent of its total diesel consumption by 2025 and 20 percent by 2030.
Union Pacific will begin testing with B20 biodiesel and R55 renewable diesel on trains powered by Wabtec FDL engines operating in California (CA) in the second quarter.
As testing progresses, it is anticipated that higher percentages of biofuels will be used. The project will help Union Pacific meet its science-based target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 26 percent by 2030 and reach its ultimate goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Increasing the use of renewable diesel and biofuels currently represents the most promising avenue to help Union Pacific meet its environmental goals. We want to drive emissions down as quickly as possible, and we believe this new project with Wabtec will make a difference, said Beth Whited, Union Pacific’s EVP – Sustainability and Strategy.
Wabtec locomotives were previously approved for B5 R30 (5 biodiesel and 30 percent renewable diesel) for locomotive engines.
Union Pacific has a comprehensive ESG initiative, which includes the exploration of alternative fuels and emerging technologies. Biodiesel and renewable diesel are important sustainable solutions for the rail industry both in the near-term and in the future, said Bob Bremmer, Group VP for Wabtec’s Fleet Innovation and Transformation division.
