A hydrogen locomotive is being tested in Namibia
TransNamib has announced that it is testing a dual-fuel locomotive powered by hydrogen and diesel fuel. It is planned that the tests will take place within 6 months. During this time, the locomotive should make about 50 trips on the Walvis Bay - Windhoek route.
During the tests, TransNamib specialists will evaluate the performance of the new locomotive based on a number of indicators, including fuel consumption, reliability, operational efficiency, and maintenance requirements. Safety protocols and staff readiness for maintenance of hydrogen-powered equipment will also be tested.
The TransNamib railway fleet consists mainly of conventional diesel locomotives. Depending on the test results, the company may consider partially replacing its locomotives with new ones.
The organization of hydrogen-fueled rail transportation in Namibia in the long term will depend on the cost and availability of hydrogen, as well as on maximum productivity in the difficult climatic conditions of the country.
NAMIBIAN
