Why this South Carolina company is retrofitting two diesel locomotives to battery power

Listen to this article

Palmetto Railways, a division of the South Carolina Department of Commerce, is partnering with Innovative Rail Technologies to convert two of its diesel switcher locomotives to lithium-ion battery powered locomotives.

IRT, a rail solutions provider that offers proprietary propulsion technology, will retrofit the state-of-the-art locomotives which are less expensive to operate, deliver superior performance and significantly reduce carbon emissions, according to a news release.

For Palmetto Railways, the switch to battery-powered locomotives will reduce the amount of diesel fuel consumed at its facilities by an estimated 40,000 gallons annually per locomotive, while providing additional resiliency to the local grid infrastructure and to local rail supply chain partners and customers, the release stated.

Related content: Auto systems manufacturer eyes e-mobility with $500M expansion in Laurens County

The zero-emission locomotives will help maximize a cleaner and more energy efficient transfer and shipment of goods through Palmetto Railways’ existing North Charleston facilities and will support the Navy Base Intermodal Facility which is currently under-construction with South Carolina Ports Authority, the release stated.

The locomotives are expected to be delivered and begin service within two years.

“As South Carolina’s trusted Lowcountry short-line rail provider, Palmetto Railways is steadfast in our commitment to adopting advanced technologies that not only help to reduce our environmental impact to our neighboring North Charleston communities, but prioritize safety, efficiency and reliable rail service for current and future customers,” said Palmetto Railways President and CEO Patrick McCrory in the release.

Funding for this project was announced in September 2023 when Palmetto Railways was awarded a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program grant of up to $4.2 million from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). Palmetto Railways will provide a 35% non-federal match.

“As we navigate the transformation of industry, it’s imperative that we look around the corner and anticipate needs while incorporating cutting-edge technology. Once online, these state-of-the-art locomotives will position Palmetto Railways to further support South Carolina’s sustainable future,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III in the release.