TSSA Backs Hydrogen Powered Trains & Calls For Network Electrification Programme

TSSA General Secretary, Manuel Cortes, has welcomed the maiden journey of the first hydrogen powered train on our network this week.

The prototype made a 25-mile round trip in Warwickshire, reaching speeds of up to 50 mph. The aim is for the train to start carrying paying passengers by the end of 2021.

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary, Manuel Cortes, said: “This is a welcome and much needed step which will help in the fight to decarbonise Britain’s railways.

“There are many examples around Europe and the world of how this technology is helping in the battle against climate change by reducing CO2 emissions. Our railways can and must play a major part in getting us on track for reaching our net zero targets.

“I have long said we need to move freight, business and leisure travellers alike off roads, out of the air and onto our trains if we want to prevent the climate emergency becoming a climate catastrophe. Our railways need to be clean, green and affordable, there is not a moment to lose.

“That’s why it’s also crucial Ministers reinstate the planned electrification programme of our rail network which was scrapped three years ago in a typically myopic move by then Transport Secretary Chris Failing Grayling. Thankfully, he's gone but his terrible legacy lingers on.”