Pesa, a Polish manufacturer, has been awarded a grant of 36.16 million PLN from the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management for the development of the country's first hydrogen-powered passenger vehicle, which will also utilize power from overhead wires. This innovative train is set to feature a triple power source that combines electric traction via a pantograph, hydrogen fuel cells, and batteries, enabling it to operate seamlessly on both electrified and non-electrified routes without the need for transfers. The new system is designed to optimize energy consumption by selecting the most efficient energy source based on the operational segment, thereby minimizing hydrogen usage where electrification is available.

The agreement, which was finalized at the last moment, involves funds originating from the National Recovery Plan (KPO) and must be accounted for by the end of June 2026. Pesa has committed to presenting a prototype within this timeframe, reflecting its commitment to innovation in sustainable transportation solutions. Climate and Environment Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska emphasized that Poland had been prepared to sign the agreement a year earlier; however, delays occurred due to the need for notification to the European Commission. Brussels spent the year reviewing the proposal to ensure that it did not constitute undue state aid, underlining the careful regulatory scrutiny involved in such sustainable initiatives.

This project is more than just a technological advancement; it represents a broader strategy by Poland to enhance its public transport infrastructure while reducing carbon emissions. With initiatives like hydrogen propulsion technology, Poland can improve its environmental sustainability and compete on an international scale in the field of clean energy solutions, potentially setting a precedent for other countries looking to adopt similar technologies in their rail systems.