Alcoa, Aurizon on track for battery-electric train trial

Alcoa and rail freight operator Aurizon will conduct a world-first Battery Electric Tender (BET) trial on an Alcoa rail route between the Pinjarra Alumina Refinery and Kwinana port in Western Australia.

The project, also involving Alta Battery Technology and supported by a funding grant to Aurizon from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), aims to reduce emissions by integrating battery-electric technology into heavy haul rail operations. The trial will use a battery-powered train wagon coupled with a modified locomotive, designed to operate as a hybrid system using both battery-electric and diesel power sources. It captures regenerative energy during braking and downhill travel and will feature a static charging station for battery recharging.

The collaboration with Aurizon, a longstanding provider to Alcoa, reflects a shared commitment to innovation and decarbonisation in freight operations.

Alcoa Australia President Elsabe Muller said decarbonisation was a key priority, including working in collaboration with suppliers to ensure upstream and downstream operations were striving for reductions in emissions. 

“Transport, including rail, is a key requirement for Alcoa’s operations and we are pleased to support the trial with Aurizon,” Muller said.

“This project could have broader implications across our business and is one of multiple initiatives with potential to assist Alcoa’s net-zero ambitions.”

Vice President of Global Procurement and Transportation Mateus Tiraboschi said: “The Global Procurement and Transportation team has been working in all regions to identify and deliver transport innovations that reduce Alcoa’s risk, costs, and drive competitive advantage.

“This is another great example of future technology that will deliver on these goals and I am incredibly proud to see the Australian transportation team generating value beyond savings.”

Work on the wagon for the BET has now been completed, and detailed design is underway for the locomotive modifications, battery container, and charging infrastructure. The BET is expected to be on track in the second half of 2026.

The BET and modified locomotive are being developed in partnership with Alta Battery Technology, which provides solutions to enable hybrid or fully electric conversions of existing assets.