Well-to-wheel analysis for electric, diesel and hydrogen traction for railways

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Well-to-wheel analysis for electric, diesel and hydrogen traction for railways

Hoffrichter, Andreas / Miller, Arnold R. / Hillmansen, Stuart / Roberts, Clive

Highlights ► The paper derives well-to-wheel efficiencies and CO2 emissions of electric, diesel, and hydrogen, railway traction systems. ► The well-to-wheel efficiency of vehicles powered by gaseous hydrogen from natural gas is similar to diesel and electric. ► Hydrail has lower CO2 emissions than diesel if H2 is produced from natural gas; higher reductions with H2 from renewables. ► Hydrail efficiency similar to electric if power source solar and transport 5000 to 7100 km, otherwise H2 efficiency higher.

Abstract This paper derives the energy efficiencies and CO2 emissions for electric, diesel and hydrogen traction for railway vehicles on a well-to-wheel basis, using the low heating value and high heating value of the enthalpy of oxidation of the fuel. The tank-to-wheel and well-to-tank efficiency are determined. Gaseous hydrogen has a WTW efficiency of 25%low heating value, if produced from methane and used in a fuel cell. This efficiency is similar to diesel and electric traction in the UK, US, and California. A reduction of about 19% in CO2 is achieved when hydrogen gas is used in a fuel cell compared to diesel traction, and a 3% reduction compared to US electricity.