Grand Canyon Railway Receives Grant to Go Zero-Emission with Battery Electric Power

Family travelers can now enjoy an even cleaner train ride than ever before as Grand Canyon Railway was recently awarded a $3.4 million grant to convert one of its classic diesel locomotives into a zero-emission, battery-powered locomotive. Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, this is all part of a nationwide push for greener transportation. Travelers will enjoy a sustainable journey from Williams, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

“This project is a unique chance to bring modern efficiency to a historic rail icon,” said Eric Hadder, chief mechanical officer, Grand Canyon Railway. “Our team in Williams is proud to lead the way in regenerative electric technology. We are proud that the locomotive will be constructed by the Railway’s own employees in our Williams Locomotive Shop.”

The new locomotive will travel to the canyon on a single battery charge. The eco-friendly upgrade includes regenerative braking, capturing energy during the 64-mile journey and recharging the battery by about 30 percent trip.

© Xanterra Travel Collection

“We are excited to embark on this new project and appreciate the support and funding from the Federal Railroad Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation. Champions of this project include local community Mayors, County Supervisors, Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and both Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema. This support allows us to pioneer sustainable, regenerative battery-electric locomotion that will help preserve this landscape and resources for future generations,” said Jeff D’Arpa, vice president and general manager, Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel.

The new technology also allows for maintenance and fuel savings. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s CRISI grant program supports environmentally forward-thinking rail projects across the country. This grant request was developed by Grand Canyon Railway and Innovative Rail Technologies.

“The Grand Canyon Railway is a place where you can experience both the amazing legacy of steam locomotion and soon, modern innovations such as battery-electric propulsion. This project will significantly reduce the already low environmental impact of visiting the Grand Canyon via rail and will provide a quieter and cleaner guest experience. This builds on our previous innovation of converting our historic steam locomotives to run on waste vegetable oil,” said Kevin Crosby, director of sustainability, Xanterra.