Sardinia to launch world's first green hydrogen trains

Sardinia is preparing to launch the world's first green hydrogen-powered trains designed specifically for narrow-gauge railways, such as the Trenino Verde. The project is supported by a total investment of 75 million euros for three production plants located in Mandas, Macomer, and Alghero. The Mandas facility, which utilizes solar energy from a nearby photovoltaic plant, is the most advanced and is expected to be inaugurated between November and December.

To support the new fleet, the regional public transport company, Arst, is using 136 million euros in funding to purchase ten hydrogen trains from the Swiss manufacturer Stadler Rail. The first train is currently undergoing testing and could enter service within a year. Additionally, the hydrogen plants will be capable of fueling hydrogen buses, with Arst planning to tender for 14 new buses at an estimated cost of 12 million euros.

Due to the innovative nature of the technology, the National Agency for Railway and Road Infrastructure Safety (Ansfisa) will conduct extensive technical verifications before full implementation.