© FNM

Italy is set to launch its first large-scale hydrogen train project, replacing diesel locomotives on the 110-kilometer Brescia-Iseo-Edolo railway in the Italian Alps. Fourteen hydrogen-powered trains from Alstom will enter service in the first half of 2026, reducing emissions and aligning with the European Union’s clean energy goals.

The project, led by FNM—the owner of railway operator Trenord—requires an investment of €367 million ($396 million). Of this, €183 million will be spent on acquiring the hydrogen trains, while another €184 million will go toward hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure. Funding is drawn from the EU’s post-COVID Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and support from the Lombardy regional government. Ticket prices will remain unchanged despite the high investment.

Hydrogen Chosen Over Electrification Due to Costs and Infrastructure Challenges

While electrification is generally a more cost-effective solution for rail transport, FNM Chairman Andrea Gibelli explains that hydrogen is better suited for the challenging terrain of Valcamonica. Electrifying the railway would have required €450 million, extensive construction of 103 kilometers of overhead lines, and the closure of 28 tunnels—resulting in three years of service disruption.

“Electric trains are more cost-effective, but they require a different infrastructure, and electrifying the line would cost around €450 million, in addition to the social costs of closing the line,” Gibelli told Reuters.

Hydrogen fuel is currently priced at €10-15 per kilogram at the point of delivery. Despite this, Gibelli argues that hydrogen remains a more practical and cost-efficient solution when factoring in the avoided costs of electrification and infrastructure upgrades.

Local Hydrogen Production to Secure Supply

To prevent supply chain disruptions, FNM will own and operate electrolysers in Brescia, Iseo, and Edolo, ensuring a local supply of green hydrogen. These will be built while the line undergoes maintenance, expected to last until September this year.

Hydrogen-powered trains have been tested in other parts of Europe, including Germany, where some lines faced technical challenges and fuel shortages. By producing hydrogen locally, Italy aims to mitigate these risks and ensure reliable service.

The first seven hydrogen trains are scheduled to begin operations in early 2026, with the full fleet of 14 expected to be in service soon after. The project positions Valcamonica as Italy’s first “Hydrogen Valley,” paving the way for further expansion of hydrogen-powered transport in the region.