CN Testing Renewable Fuel Locos on B&LE

Canadian National has begun testing renewable fuel locomotives on its Bessemer & Lake Erie line in Pennsylvania and Ohio.

Railway Age reported that the testing is being conducted in partnership with Progress Rail and Renewable Energy Group.

Locomotives in the test use a blend of biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel. The locomotives began operating on Feb. 1.

CN officials told Railway Age that the test program will run for approximately two years. One of the project objectives is to gain a better understanding of the long-term durability and operational effects of renewable fuels on locomotives, particularly during cold weather.

The fuel is being supported by Renewable Energy and contains high-percentage blends of biomass-based fuel, including both biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel.

Tags: Bessemer & Lake Erie, Canadian National, Canadian National locomotives, renewable fuel locomotives