The Zillertalbahn, which is currently operated with diesel traction, is not to be electrified. Instead, the state of Tyrol relies on hydrogen-powered trains. Before that, there had been discussions for years about whether to switch to electricity or another energy source. 

The Zillertalbahn is around 33 kilometers long and is also of great importance for tourism. Due to the lack of electrification, trains with diesel engines are currently being used. The state government has so far shied away from the quite high costs that would have to be paid for laying the contact wire. Hydrogen traction was an alternative. With regard to a decision, the state of Tyrol has been on the brakes for several years. Both technologies are not exactly cheap. 

Now a decision has been made: the Zillertalbahn is to be operated with hydrogen trains in the future. The corresponding decision is to be made by the state government on Tuesday. Critics argue that the technology that has now been adopted would be considered expensive and risky. Proponents argue that the opportunity to become a model region is secured. Furthermore, you have enough of your own electricity available to produce the required hydrogen. 

For decades no one crowed that the Zillertalbahn was not electrified. It was only triggered by the "climate debate" that the topic really got going, but the state government stood on the brakes for several years. Now it is ÖVP Governor Anton Mattle, of all people, who is increasing the pace himself. He himself will submit the corresponding application, even though the Transport Provincial Councilor René Zumtobel (SPÖ), who is an expert due to his previous work at ÖBB, was not completely convinced. 

Mattle is ignoring this and has already sent letters to tourist boards and mayors. Among other things, it can be read in these that he would be aware that higher costs would arise at first glance. But he was convinced by the future potential of the hydrogen railway for the Zillertal. According to the Tyrolean governor, it is even a project of the century.  

The Zillertal public transport company assumes that costs of around 130 million euros will be incurred. There should be financial subsidies from the municipalities and tourism associations. The state of Tyrol will also make its contribution. Mattle is also negotiating with the federal government for a share of the costs. However, the Gewessler Ministry prefers to promote night trains and fewer trains that are of tourist importance.