TWO new hybrid trains have joined the Sellafield internal rail network, replacing older and less environmentally friendly engines.

The new trains have been brought in as part of a plan to replace all solely diesel locomotives with smaller, all-electric 40-tonne versions, making Sellafield’s rail operations 100 per cent electrically powered in 2022.

The new CBD80 tonne locomotives, supplied by Clayton Equipment, are capable of being operated fully by electric and have the cleanest available diesel engines as back-up.

They are set to safely move nuclear materials and wastes across the internal rail network that criss-crosses the Sellafield site, helping to deliver the site’s purpose of creating a clean and safe environment for future generations.

Mark McSherry, from the Sellafield site railways team said: “Our existing fleet has done a great job keeping site operations going but they run on diesel, have high emissions, and aren’t environmentally friendly.

“These new locos are hybrid; they have the cleanest diesel engines available and are able to run completely on electric with on board battery charging.

“They are designed to reduce operations and maintenance costs and have reduced emissions, reducing our carbon footprint. It’s all positive."

Clive Hannaford, managing director of Clayton Equipment, said: “We are very pleased with this new order to supply Sellafield Ltd with sustainable, low emission, environmentally compliant equipment which meets their commitment to invest in technology and provide cost savings with long term durability.”