Scientific paper ID 2406 : 2023/3

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the opportunities for reducing the carbon intensity of the economy. The introduction of hydrogen technologies into the European economy is a key factor in fulfilling the ambitious goals of the European Green Pact. Therefore, the possibilities of decarbonisation of railway transport, by using hydrogen to drive the traction rolling stock, are being considered. The possibilities of using alternative sources of energy for railway transport have been analyzed. Good practices for using hydrogen as an alternative energy source from a number of railway organizations are reviewed. The energy balance in land transport – road and rail – is presented, from which it is clear that no renewable energy sources are used in rail transport. In conclusion, the need to carry out studies on switching from diesel fuel to hydrogen is justified, from a technical, ecological and economic point of view, which will reduce the carbon intensity of the economy in Bulgaria and its dependence on the import of petroleum products.