The degree of electrification of the Austrian railway infrastructure is relatively far progressed, whereby there’s further potential for a conversion from diesel-electric trains to renewable propulsion systems. The existing high-voltage grid of the railway infrastructure forms the basis for possible hydrogen production through electrolysis, grid stabilisation as well as expansion of renewable energy.
Main objective of HYTRAIL is the identification of possible hydrogen application potentials for the existing railway infrastructure. The options for the implementation in the rail operation as well as the elaboration of specific application scenarios aims for a near-term realization. Additional potentials regarding storage technology, refuelling technology and hydrogen supply for external customers will be evaluated.
By analysing the overall railway infrastructure regarding potential hydrogen applications an overview of technical feasibility will be provided. A comprising risk assessment addresses issues such as technology, safety and economic efficiency will be elaborated at the same time.
