Union Pacific, Progress Rail to increase biodiesel content for locomotives

Union Pacific will increase the amount of biodiesel that fuels locomotives used for Progress Rail.

Progress Rail, a Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT) subsidiary that provides rolling stock and infrastructure solutions to rail customers worldwide, has agreed to use up to a 20% biodiesel blend for specific electro-motive diesel locomotives operated by UP (NYSE: UNP). The previous level that locomotives could use was a 5% biodiesel blend. 

Increasing the biodiesel content is part of a broader effort to reduce carbon emissions, according to both companies. Before deciding to increase the biodiesel blend, the companies conducted tests on the high-horsepower locomotives, monitoring their performance and fuel consumption, including how the increased biodiesel blend impacted engine oil and fuel filters, the companies said in a joint release. Progress Rail is also undergoing additional testing and development, they said.

“Union Pacific is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint, and this is another step toward achieving our long-term goal to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 26% by 2030,” said Beth Whited, UP chief human resource officer. “We continue to identify opportunities to increase low carbon fuel usage in our locomotives and appreciate Progress Rail’s partnership in our efforts.”