Argentina launches solar-powered train using battery packs charged by local sunlight

Latin America’s inaugural solar-driven railway, the Tren Solar de la Quebrada, traverses 42 km of high-altitude desert in Jujuy province, connecting six communities in the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley. The train does not carry rooftop photovoltaic panels; instead, six lithium-ion batteries are charged by solar power generated locally and by regenerative braking. Fast-charging stations at Volcán and Purmamarca, with a third at Tilcara under construction, enable the train to cover 100-120 km on a single charge—more than twice its current route length.

Launched in June 2024, the service has attracted over 90,000 riders, restoring passenger rail after a three-decade hiatus and offering a zero-emission alternative to diesel. The project showcases how abundant sunshine can power railways where electrified networks are absent, complementing similar renewable-rail initiatives in Europe. Argentina hopes the model may inspire other sun-rich regions to adopt battery-based rail transport.