Alternative fuel locomotive

In the 21st century, a variety of technologies are being experimentally tried as alternative fuels, including hydrogen, liquified natural gas, and compressed natural gas.

[1] In the United States, BNSF Railway tested a hydrogen powered switcher locomotive in 2008 and 2009, in partnership with the United States Army.

[2] Several railroads have tested battery electric locomotives, which operate based on rechargeable batteries and have zero greenhouse gas emissions.

[2] Compared to conventional diesel locomotives, battery electric locomotives are quieter and cleaner, but require charging stations to support their use.

[3] At least one instance of a battery electric locomotive, for the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad, was funded by a state government grant supporting improvements to air quality.