CSX touts GenSet locomotive in Selkirk, N.Y.

Representatives from CSX and New York State Thursday unveiled the state’s second ultra-low emission GenSet locomotive at an event at CSX’s Selkirk Yard. Jointly funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and CSX, the locomotive will be used at the yard, near Albany, N.Y., significantly reducing nitrous oxide, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide emissions in the area.

The GenSet locomotive, manufactured by National Railway Equipment Co., was purchased with a $1 million EPA award under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act to the New York State Department of Transportation, made possible through the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program. CSX funded the remaining $400,000 as part of its commitment to reducing emissions and using less fuel.

CSX says the introduction of GenSet locomotives throughout its network is part of the company’s commitment to reduce its carbon dioxide intensity 8% by 2011, which was achieved nearly one year ahead of schedule. During the last decade, CSX has invested more than $1.5 billion to upgrade its locomotive fleet with technology that reduces fuel consumption and air pollutant emissions. Through these efforts, the company says, it has improved its fuel efficiency by more than 90% since 1980. 

“The GenSet locomotive you see behind me represents the next generation of sustainable technology,” said Skip Elliott, vice president, public safety and environment, CSX Transportation. “We are proud of our partnership with EPA and the State of New York, which helps us serve our customers and communities with the most efficient and environmentally friendly service every day.”

“Projects like this will literally help repower the Empire State,” said Stanley Gee, executive deputy commissioner of NYSDOT. “This new locomotive — with three smaller engines that cycle on and off according to need — will reduce emissions and save diesel fuel as goods are moved efficiently across the state. This innovative technology is an example of Governor Cuomo’s goal of creating a new green economy with livable communities, new jobs and sustainable growth.”