Net-zero strategy for a leading rail operator

Building a Strategic Roadmap to Achieve Net-Zero Mobility

In alignment with global climate objectives, a passenger rail service provider aimed to achieve net-zero GHG emissions across its operations. Partnering with DB E.C.O. North America, they embarked on a comprehensive evaluation of their carbon footprint, researching innovative zero-emission rail technologies suitable for various routes. The collaboration yielded a strategy that secured board approval and catalyzed the launch of a comprehensive net-zero implementation program. This program, consisting of numerous impactful decarbonization efforts, positions the client at the forefront of sustainable rail travel.

Challenge

Inspired by global climate targets, our client, a passenger rail provider, is actively working towards achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout its entire value chain. In pursuit of this ambitious goal, our client sought insights into its carbon footprint and cost-effective decarbonization strategies. While much of the client’s greenhouse gas emissions come from its diesel locomotive fleet, the energy consumption of stations and facilities also play an important role.

Approach

DB E.C.O. North America collaborated closely with the client’s leadership team to dissect their organization’s entire GHG footprint. The DB team identified the performance potential of a range of low- and zero-emission rail technologies, such as renewable diesel, batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, electrification, and ammonia combustion engines. By evaluating these technologies’ suitability on different routes, the team recommended service-specific zero-emission propulsion systems. Further analysis addressed the reduction of GHG gas emissions due to electricity and heating of stations and facilities, as well as supply-chain emissions. The team benefited by the knowledge and experience Deutsche Bahn has gained over the last couple of years with implementing its own decarbonization strategy across all its business units, with specific CO₂ emissions already reduced by 42 percent by 2022 compared to 2006 and net-zero targeted by 2040.

Results

This in-depth analysis culminated in a comprehensive strategic plan, outlining the roadmap for implementing the client’s net-zero commitment. The strategy earned the approval of the client’s board and led to the establishment of an organization-wide net-zero implementation program. This program encompasses numerous cross-organizational decarbonization projects, steering the client closer to its ambitious sustainability goals.