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Blue Sky Merit Award

UP's Genset Locomotives Recognized for Energy Efficiency

May 5, 2008 | 02:00 p.m. CDT

Using the latest technology to develop a more efficient and "green" switching locomotive has earned UP the 2008 CALSTART Blue Sky Merit Award, recognizing companies, organizations and individuals with outstanding contributions to clean air, energy efficiency and to a cleaner transportation industry overall.

Founded in 1992, CALSTART is a non-profit organization working with private and public companies to advance transportation and other related technologies to help clean the air, lessen dependence on foreign oil, reduce global warming and create jobs.

"Union Pacific Railroad stepped up with a smart next step to battle urban pollution: its commitment to developing and then operating cleaner, energy-efficient 'Genset' switching engines deserves recognition," said John Boesel, President and CEO of CALSTART.

UP's "Genset" is a successor to the first-generation diesel-battery hybrid switching locomotive. It is expected to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and particulate matter by up to 80 percent and achieve a similar 16 percent reduction in fuel consumption.

"Union Pacific is committed to moving freight safely and more efficiently to reduce the environmental impact on the communities in which we operate," said Chairman Jim Young. "We are honored to receive The Blue Sky Merit Award for work on the Genset locomotive and other environmental efforts, which reflect our employees' vision and creativity in generating solutions that have a long-term positive impact on the transportation industry."

UP will receive the 2008 Blue Sky Award at the CALSTART awards ceremony and luncheon on June 10, 2008, in Los Angeles.