Alstom Halts Hydrogen Train Development Amid French Funding Challenges
Paris, Wednesday, 26 November 2025.
Alstom has paused its hydrogen train development due to potential French government funding cuts, impacting innovation in Europe’s green transition.
Funding Challenges and Implications
Alstom, a leading rail manufacturer based in France, has announced a pause in its hydrogen train development projects, citing potential cuts in government funding as the primary reason [1]. This decision highlights the critical role that government support plays in the advancement of green technologies, particularly under the European Union’s ambitious climate goals. Alstom’s announcement underscores the vulnerability of innovative projects to policy shifts, particularly as the EU seeks to transition to cleaner energy solutions [1].
Current Commitments and Technological Status
Despite the halt in further development, Alstom remains committed to fulfilling its existing orders for hydrogen trains across France and Europe. These orders include 12 trainsets for various French regions and six hydrogen fuel cell trains for Lombardy, Italy, with an option for additional units [1]. Alstom’s CEO, Henri Poupart-Lafarge, has noted that while fuel cell technology is improving, significant advancements are still needed to achieve full maturity [1].
Broader Context of Hydrogen Development
The pause in Alstom’s hydrogen train development comes amidst a broader context of fluctuating investments in hydrogen technology within Europe. Alstom’s involvement in the IPCEI Hy2tech project, launched by the EU in July 2022, aimed to draw substantial private investment into hydrogen projects [1]. However, the potential cessation of French government funding threatens to undermine these efforts, as Europe faces stiff competition from countries like China, which continue to heavily invest in hydrogen infrastructure [1].
Future Prospects and Strategic Dialogue
Alstom is actively engaging in dialogue with the French government to explore solutions that could sustain its hydrogen sector activities in France [1]. The company’s leadership stresses the importance of maintaining momentum in hydrogen technology to prevent Europe from falling behind other global leaders in this field [1]. This strategic dialogue is crucial as it seeks to align national policies with broader EU goals for decarbonization and sustainable transport [1].