The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, manager of the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service, recently announced its passenger rail fleet is powered by a more sustainable fuel alternative.
“The adoption of renewable diesel for our Pacific Surfliner service is an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental preservation and the fight against climate change,” Jewel Edson, LOSSAN Agency Board of Directors chairperson, said. “We take immense pride in joining forces with Amtrak, state and federal agencies, rail equipment manufacturers, and fuel distributors who share our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.”
The trains now operate on renewable diesel that is manufactured from renewable raw materials such as used cooking oil. Compared to fossil diesel, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 63 percent throughout its lifecycle. It also potentially will reduce other harmful emissions such as fine particulates and nitrogen oxides.
The Pacific Surfliner also operates with diesel-electric Charger locomotives, one of the cleanest diesel-electric passenger locomotives in operation.
The Pacific Surfliner travels a 351-mile coastal route through six counties, serving 29 stations.
The LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency is a joint powers authority comprised of rail owners, operators, and planning agencies.