Representing the first time hydrogen has been transported by rail in the UK, the companies believe the solution could act as a “rolling pipeline,” by moving large volumes of hydrogen via existing railway routes.

The hydrogen used in the trial was supplied by the 15MW HyMarnham Power site, which was backed by the government under the first Hydrogen Allocation Round, and stored in pressurised gas containers.

“The railway has the potential to be a strategic hydrogen distribution network in the future, as it has been for energy for many years,” said Leevan Finney, Network Rail’s engineering services director.

“We’re accelerating Britain’s journey to Net Zero and showing how rail and energy sectors can work together to deliver sustainable transport and energy distribution.”

The trial event also features a hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive to replace diesel in yard operations, and hydrogen generators to light towers and support vehicles for construction and maintenance work.

Freightliner’s Dave Penney said rail is “already the most sustainable choice for long-distance freight,” reportedly producing 76% fewer carbon emissions compared to diesel road transport.

Andrew Cunningham, CEO of GeoPura, added, “By supplying locally produced green hydrogen from HyMarnham Power to this first-of-its-kind rail application, we’re showing that clean fuel, proven technology and existing rail infrastructure work together right now to cut carbon and improve air quality across the network.”