Caltrain’s shift from diesel to electric trains earns major sustainability recognition as agency leads regional efforts to cut emissions
San Mateo County, California – Caltrain’s path into a new era of transportation reached a significant milestone as it was awarded the Sustainable San Mateo County’s (SSMC) 2025 Sustainability Award. Presented at the 26th Annual Sustainability Awards, the award acknowledged Caltrain for its move from conventional diesel to electric trains, significantly greening the transportation system along the San Francisco Peninsula.
This renowned award underlines Caltrain’s commitment to improving environmental, economic, and social fairness throughout the region. By cutting greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and reducing traffic congestion, the move to electric trains fits more general state and regional sustainability goals. Replacing diesel engines helps to avoid emissions similar to removing tens of thousands of cars from roadways annually.
By generating jobs in 36 states, the electrification initiative has not only helped the environment but also promoted economic development. This national campaign emphasizes the broad scope of the initiative, hence promoting creativity and employment generation much beyond the local area.
“At Caltrain, sustainability is a core value underlying our work across the Peninsula,” said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard in a news release. “We are honored to be recognized by Sustainable San Mateo County for our electrification project’s impact on furthering the region’s key environmental, economic and equity goals. Electrified service has reinvented our system for generations to come, and we are confident it will continue to serve as a model for other railroad systems across the nation.”
“For the first time in 160 years, this rail corridor is running on 100% zero emission power,” said Caltrain Board Chair Steve Heminger. “This monumental achievement will change millions of lives for the better and is a legacy that all three counties Caltrain serves can be proud of.”
The introduction of high-performance electric trains in September 2024 signaled a major improvement in the level of service offered to users. With quieter, more comfortable cabins and facilities including customer-facing Wi-Fi and accessible power outlets, these contemporary trains not only cut travel time but also improve the riding experience.
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ridership has also significantly risen with the move to electric. Caltrain has had its greatest ridership numbers since before the pandemic since the electric service started, with a significant increase over the past months. With this increased tendency carrying on into the new year, December 2024 alone showed a 41% rise in passengers over the prior year.
Furthermore exceeding initially expectations, the electric trains have regenerative braking systems that help energy efficiency by sending almost 23% of the energy used back to the electric grid. This creative element not only promotes sustainability but also helps to lower running expenses in relation to the previous diesel service.
Beginning its journey over 160 years ago, Caltrain has changed from steam to diesel and now to electric power, therefore significantly transforming its service and dedication to sustainability. Backed by significant federal and state funding, the Caltrain Electrification Project heralds a new, greener age for the oldest continuously running railroad in the West. This change not only honors its rich past but also shows a constructive path toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
