Summary sheet
The project involves acquiring 14 hydrogen-powered trainsets for passenger services on the non-electrified railway line between Brescia and Edolo. These hydrogen-powered trainsets will replace the diesel trainsets currently operating on the line. It also includes related works and installations on the same line, such as extending platform lengths and installing electrical systems. In addition, the project covers the acquisition of approximately 40 hydrogen buses for services on several routes in Lombardy, and the installation of hydrogen refuelling stations for light and heavy-duty road vehicles on major Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) motorways in Lombardy and Piedmont.
The aim is to support the decarbonisation of rail, public transport and road transport in Lombardy. This is expected to improve the quality of rail and public transport services, encourage travel by rail, and reduce the use of private vehicles and the associated negative impacts on the local environment and road safety. The project will also contribute to the deployment of alternative fuel infrastructure along the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). It will therefore help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable transport in line with European Union objectives.
The acquisition of rail rolling stock and buses does not fall under either Annex I or Annex II of the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (EIA). The conformity of the rail rolling stock with the Technical Specifications for Interoperability concerning noise and accessibility for persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility will be analysed during the appraisal. In addition, the arrangements for scrapping the replaced stock will be checked during the appraisal. The need for an EIA and/or an assessment according to the Habitats Directive for the maintenance depot and hydrogen production, storage and distribution installations, as well as the conformity of the hydrogen installations with Directive 2012/18/EU (Seveso III Directive) and Directive 2010/75/EU (Industrial Emissions Directive), will be analysed during the appraisal.
The promoter to ensure that contracts for implementation of the project have been and/or will be tendered in accordance with the applicable EU procurement legislation, 2014/25/EU as well as Directive 92/13/EEC as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the EU, with publication of tender notices in the EU Official Journal, as and where required.