Sector coupling potential of wind-based hydrogen production and fuel cell train operation in regional rail transport in Berlin and Brandenburg

As the transport sector is ought to be decarbonized, fuel-cell-powered trains are a viable zero-tailpipe technology alternative widely employed diesel multiple units in regional railway service on non-electrified tracks. Carbon-free hydrogen can provided by water-electrolysis from renewable energies. In this study we introduce an approach assess potential of wind-based for use adjacent rail applying GIS conjunction with site-level cost model. Brandenburg about 10.1 million train-km annually could switched fuel cell electric train operation. This relates consumption appr. 9.5 liters today. If would employed, that translated 2198 annual tons annually. At favorable sites costs approx. 6.40 €/kg - including refueling stations achieved. Making excess available other consumers, further decrease production costs.