On November 27, 2023, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Request for Information (RFI) as part of the US National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. The purpose of the RFI was to aggregate knowledge from rail stakeholders to help direct actions regarding future propulsion technologies, infrastructure requirements, and coordination among key stakeholders to ensure that the rail sector is meeting or exceeding U.S. decarbonization milestones.

OptiFuel Systems leads the industry in locomotive innovation, particularly in zero emission propulsion technology for the rail sector worldwide. With experience in diesel, dual-fuel (diesel/CNG), hydrogen, and RNG/CNG powered locomotives, OptiFuel stands at the forefront of sustainable transportation solutions. In response to the RFI, OptiFuel provided an extensive analysis of fuel supply availability, cost, and existing infrastructure across the United States.

Download the full report below to learn:

• The benefits and constraints of various propulsion options, including renewable natural gas, diesel/biodiesel, hydrogen, battery electric, and catenary electric.
• The importance of focusing on power technologies feasible for practical application in line haul use.
• The reasons for RNG-powered locomotives, including affordability, EPA certification as zero-emission, availability of fuel supply and efficient integration of refueling infrastructure, and suitability for line haul operations without the need for tender cars in most applications.