Cepsa, Maersk and Renfe successfully completed the project First test of renewable fuels in rail transport in Spain. Over 15 weeks, Renfe locomotives used more than 130 tonnes of HVO (renewable diesel) to complete 100 journeys between Algeciras and Córdoba, a non-electrified section of the corridor connecting Algeciras and Madrid. This enabled the sustainable transport of more than 4,700 containers (TEUs), adding to the use of renewable energy on the remainder of the route. preventing approximately 500 tons of CO2 emissions.
This pilot made some gains very satisfactory resultsindicates optimum engine performance. Cepsa, Maersk and Renfe are therefore analyzing the possibility of continuing to fuel the route with renewable diesel and even expanding this to other non-electrified routes.
This second-generation biofuel, which replaces the traditional diesel fuel used in Renfe locomotives, was produced at Cepsa’s La Rábida Energy Park (Huelva). from used cooking oils. Such renewable fuels can be used throughout their life (from production to use) without the need for any modifications to the engines. Manages to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90%Compared to conventional fuels. In addition, second-generation biofuels support the circular economy by using waste that would otherwise go to landfill for their production.
Cooperation for decarbonization
After successfully carrying out various tests in air and sea transport and starting to market renewable diesel at service stations and customer premises, the success of this pilot represents a new advancement in its ambition for Cepsa. Facilitate decarbonization heavy carrying through the production of green molecules. As set out in its ‘Positive Action’ strategy, the company aims to be a reference point in the energy transition and to lead renewable fuel production in Spain and Portugal by 2030 with an annual production capacity of 2.5 million tons.
Maersk announced that it will achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 in all business areas such as sea, land and air transportation, as well as land-based activities such as warehousing, terminals and other land-based services. To achieve this, Maersk has already defined ambitious short-term goals These include a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from land logistics activities such as rail and trucking (compared to the 2020 base year).
Renfe Mercancias, a leading operator in sustainable mobility, continues to strengthen its corporate strategy with a clear commitment to leading the decarbonisation of transport. Last year, almost 80% of the total traffic handled by the company was driven by ‘ZeroCO2’ electric locomotives powered by renewable energy; This rate is increasing thanks to the purchase of new, more modern, safer electric traction systems. engine material and efficient. In this direction, Renfe Mercancias was put into service this year. 12 new high-power electric locomotives It will operate on the Iberian line and last March signed a contract for the supply of 12 international gauge electric locomotives worth 136.7 million euros, with the option to supply 6 more locomotives for freight movement in the Mediterranean Corridor. Able to operate in France. The launch of this biofuel trial will allow us to explore sustainable alternatives for rail transport on non-electrified lines.