- The Sea Change is the world’s first hydrogen-powered passenger ferry, operating in San Francisco with zero emissions.
- Hydrogen fuel cells could reduce the maritime industry’s 3% share of global greenhouse gas emissions.
- The project is a collaboration between public and private sectors, proving hydrogen’s potential in marine transport.
In July, the world witnessed the inaugural voyage of the first commercial passenger ferry powered entirely by hydrogen fuel cells, setting a new standard for zero-emission marine transportation in San Francisco, California. The ferry, named Sea Change, is part of a six-month demonstration project that highlights the potential of hydrogen in reducing the carbon footprint of marine operations, reports Chevron.
The Importance of Hydrogen in Maritime
The maritime industry is responsible for approximately 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To put it in perspective, if the industry were a country, it would rank as the sixth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally.
Hydrogen fuel cells offer a promising solution to lower these emissions, especially for applications that are difficult to electrify.
As Michael Hoban, Hydrogen General Manager, stated, “As the technology and policies advance, we expect that the use of hydrogen will also grow, specifically in these use cases that are hard to electrify. A strong spirit of partnership will be needed to do this well and to do it at scale.”
How Hydrogen Fuel Cells Work
The Sea Change ferry demonstrates the effectiveness of hydrogen fuel cells in marine vessels. These cells convert chemical energy from hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy, producing only water and heat as byproducts.
They offer a significant advantage in reducing emissions and do not require recharging, making them a practical alternative for sustainable marine operations.
This pilot project is a significant step forward for hydrogen use in the maritime sector. It showcases how public and private entities can collaborate to overcome challenges in deploying new technologies.
Elizabeth Vose, Hydrogen Commercial Advisor, emphasized this collaboration, saying, “Public and private entities came together to demonstrate the commercial viability of hydrogen and increase consumer confidence in it.Chevron is focused on creating a large-scale hydrogen business that builds on our assets, capabilities and relationships.”
Collaborative Efforts
The success of the Sea Change project is due to the combined efforts of several organizations. Chevron provided financial support, while the vessel is owned by SWITCH Maritime. Other key contributors include the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District, Blue & Gold Fleet, and United Airlines.
The Water Emergency Transportation Authority manages the ferry service on the San Francisco Bay, with the vessel being crewed by Blue & Gold Fleet.
Sea Change not only offers passengers stunning views but also a lower-carbon transportation option. For the maritime industry, it serves as a practical example of how hydrogen can significantly reduce the carbon intensity of marine operations.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Chevron
