The ambitious ‘H2iseO Hydrogen Valley project, backed by the Lombardy Region government and key players in the region’s transport infrastructure, aims to revolutionize the area’s transport system with a profound commitment to decarbonization and sustainability.
A Visionary Future of Decarbonisation
Lombardy Region’s president, Attilio Fontana, highlighted the urgency and potential of the project in his speech, suggesting that the initiative is a significant step towards achieving a sustainable future for the region’s inhabitants. The project involves a comprehensive transformation of the current diesel-fueled public transportation network, with 14 new hydrogen trains set to replace the existing fleet. Furthermore, the initiative will oversee the construction of three renewable hydrogen production, storage, and distribution facilities, which will operate without producing CO2 emissions.
These production sites will utilize innovative technologies to generate hydrogen, such as Steam Reforming technology at the Iseo plant, using biomethane, renewable electricity, and CO2 capture. The facilities in Brescia and Edolo will instead harness electrolysis technology, powered by renewable energy sources. Such initiatives will not only contribute to emission reductions but also align with the goals set by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.
Moreover, the project seeks to introduce 40 hydrogen buses to replace FNM Autoservizi’s current fleet operating in Valcamonica.
Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow
The ‘H2iseO Hydrogen Valley project embodies the Lombardy Region’s commitment to technological innovation and sustainable development. Franco Lucente, the Councilor for Transport and Sustainable Mobility, reiterated the government’s objective of integrating all energy sources that combine technological advancement with emission reductions. Among the targets, he identified the renewal of the train fleet with an environmentally-friendly alternative and investments in electrified boats for local lakeside public transport.
Councilor Claudia Maria Terzi emphasized the project’s complexity and trailblazing nature, asserting that replacing diesel trains with hydrogen ones on non-electrified lines aligns with the projections of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Beyond being a novel experiment, the H2iseO project is an opportunity to establish infrastructure for hydrogen distribution and regional development.
An Investment in Green Infrastructure
The project also signifies a commitment to infrastructure development, with a notable investment of €209,420,000 slated for 12 redevelopment projects on the Brescia-Iseo-Edolo railway line. Councilor Giorgio Maione acknowledged the project’s importance in fostering a greener transport system, benefiting the territory and facilitating more fluid road systems.
The ‘H2iseO Hydrogen Valley project is a monumental stride towards a greener future for the Lombardy Region. It is an innovative initiative leveraging technological advancements to pave the way for sustainable transportation and decarbonization, offering a blueprint for other regions to follow.
