Deadline Date: February 11, 2026
The European Commission is now accepting applications for its Sustainable and Green Rail System Initiative to enhance the sustainability performance of railway systems through the development, testing, and deployment of innovative products and services that minimize energy consumption, resource use, and environmental impact.
The focus is on innovative solutions to minimise environmental footprint of the overall rail system, including less resource-intensive materials (infrastructure, rolling stock and operational). Holistic approach towards generation, storage and optimal use of energy in the infrastructure connected to the European energy network. Innovative approaches to design and use, focused on increased capacity and modularity of solutions (tools, manufacturing processes and efficient use of resources). Systems improvement including electro-mechanical components for low consumption, low emissions, low noise and low vibration levels. Healthier and safer subsystems such as air-filtration, disinfection systems and eco-friendly HVAC technologies. New designs of rolling-stock especially modular interiors for a more adaptative, attractive and economically sustainable railway transport for passengers and supported by industrial standards.
With an indicative budget of EUR 26.6 million and an estimated project duration of 30 months, the program builds on prior research such as FP4-Rail4Earth to achieve energy and CO₂ savings, circular sustainability, and a safer, more attractive rail environment. The flagship project seeks to integrate solutions like a Rail Power Smart Grid that merges greener energies, intelligent energy management at both station and network levels, and resilient, climate-proof materials for rail infrastructure and rolling stock.
The initiative will also advance healthier and safer environments through improved HVAC systems, passenger flow management integrating safety measures, and industrial standards that facilitate modular, bio-sourced interiors. The project targets the demonstration of innovative technologies by 2028, including hydrogen hybrid trains, battery electric multi-unit trains, and energy-smart adaptive systems.
Additional efforts include the development of universal hydrogen refueling interfaces, airless train technologies, and noise reduction solutions, all designed to push Europe’s rail systems closer to climate neutrality by 2050. Preparatory work will continue to advance these technologies toward full-scale demonstration and integration.
For more information, visit European Commission.
