Illinois celebrated a major clean energy milestone with the launch of a zero-emission, battery-electric locomotive on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
Governor J.B. Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Innovative Rail Technologies (IRT), and Motive Power Resources, Inc. (MPR) to mark the event. The project, supported by the state’s Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois program, highlights Illinois’ leadership in clean energy and transportation innovation.
Expanding Clean Manufacturing in Illinois
Motive Power Resources has expanded its Grundy County facilities to increase production of IRT-designed battery locomotives and retrofit diesel engines with battery systems for North American use.
Governor Pritzker called it a “major advancement” for U.S. rail systems, noting Illinois’ role in creating clean manufacturing jobs. DCEO Director Kristin Richards emphasized that the state’s supplier-first strategy ensures local manufacturers and workers lead the clean energy revolution.
Driving a Greener Economy
The new locomotive is part of a growing wave of clean energy projects from companies like Nano Nuclear, Richardson Electronics, and Pure Lithium, reinforcing Illinois’ economic growth and sustainability goals.
IRT, now North America’s largest producer of battery electric locomotives, is partnering with MPR to meet rising demand from industrial, military, and public clients.
Mark Denzler, president of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, said, “The technology being built here in Illinois is setting the standard for sustainable rail innovation.
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