Saudi Arabia is set to introduce the region’s first hydrogen-powered train, according to Kingdom’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jasser. Speaking at the COP28 conference in Dubai, Al-Jasser mentioned that the cost of alternative energy for transportation is decreasing rapidly. He acknowledged the challenges associated with reducing carbon emissions, including the growing population and the consequent increase in transportation usage.
Al-Jasser emphasized that transportation is a major contributor to climate change and carbon emissions, representing the second largest source of emissions in Saudi Arabia after the energy sector. He highlighted the significance of the Saudi Green Initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, in prioritizing sustainability and incorporating it into environmental initiatives.
Reducing carbon emissions
The Kingdom aims to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 267 million tons by 2030, with the National Transport Strategy targeting an 18 percent reduction in emissions by the same year. Al-Jasser stated that sustainable transportation plans in Saudi Arabia are aligned with Vision 2030 and are making steady progress toward their goals.
The minister outlined four challenges in achieving carbon reduction goals: population growth leading to increased transportation usage, the need for costly infrastructure to support low-emission technologies (especially in developing countries), the requirement for increased non-fossil energy production to support the transition, and the availability of data necessary for implementing solutions and initiatives.
Legislative framework
Al-Jasser noted that the cost of electric cars has decreased in some regions, making them more affordable and encouraging future purchases. Additionally, governments may enact legislation to incentivize the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles, and Saudi Arabia has established a legislative framework to support policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions in transportation and other sectors.
Saudi Arabia is also implementing measures to reduce transportation needs, such as promoting remote work in government departments and investing in public transport projects like the Riyadh metro and bus system. In addition, the Kingdom is committed to adopting environmentally friendly policies in aviation, including the use of low-carbon emission fuels for aircraft.
In addition to these efforts, Saudi Arabia recently conducted a successful test run of a hydrogen train, which will soon be operational. Moreover, this train represents a significant step toward sustainable and innovative railway transportation, as it emits zero carbon and is environmentally friendly.
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