VDV: Modest efficiency and availability argue against alternative fuels

The VDV has presented a position paper on the introduction of alternative fuels. "We expect a noticeable shortage of alternative fuels until at least 2030. In public transport, energy costs will fundamentally increase due to the transformation; additionally, there will be costs for charging and refueling infrastructure. This means that companies will place even greater emphasis on the efficiency of the technology used, as this plays a significant role in operating costs," explained VDV Vice President Veit Salzmann. The VDV position paper is intended to help decision-making for infrastructure and vehicle investments in the industry and to highlight where climate and transport policy at the federal and state levels needs to take action.

"We have a shortage of renewable energy relative to demand, while the need for e-mobility and heat pumps is increasing. At the same time, the expansion of renewable energy generation is significantly behind the targets set by politics. Alternative fuels are usually climate-friendly, but there are significant differences in efficiency," Salzmann further emphasized.

E-Fuels with very low efficiency

The range extends from 77% for the catenary operation to 66% for battery drive – set slightly too low by the VDV, compared to other studies speaking of 73 to 76% – to the fuel cell, which has an efficiency of 22% according to the VDV, while other sources indicate an efficiency between 15 to 20% for hydrogen drives. For e-fuels, it is 14% (other sources: 10 to 12%). According to the VDV, there are also significant differences in terms of availability. The industry expects hydrogen to be used in large quantities as a substitute for natural gas in the future, for example by energy suppliers in gas power plants. It would also be needed in industry as a process gas for steel production and other industrial processes, thus not being available in sufficient quantities for the transport sector.

Decisions on infrastructure are pending

"Transport companies are driving the transformation forward with all their might. To meet the climate protection requirements by 2030, decisions for suitable infrastructures must now be made. Since these will be operated over a depreciation period of 20 years, all relevant framework conditions must be considered," said Salzmann.

In addition to energy and operating costs, technical development trends, the availability and distribution of energy carriers – e.g., by pipeline or truck – and their competitive situation must be considered. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for all cities and regions in Germany. Synergy effects between local energy suppliers, public utilities, and other transport companies must be taken into account. For example, charging infrastructures for municipal vehicles used in waste management or street cleaning could be designed from a single source. Another investment factor is the TEN-T networks and "urban nodes." The industry should use the various federal and state funding programs for the new construction of charging and infrastructure – and politics should accordingly increase the funds for planning security.