Can a venerable coal-fired steamship be transformed into a zero-emissions ferry? A feasibility study will delve into the possibility, backed by a US$600,000 grant from the US Maritime Administration (MARAD), reports riviera.
The grant was issued by MARAD to Lake Michigan Carferry to support a zero-emissions, carbon capture feasibility analysis to convert 71-year-old SS Badger from a coal-fired steamship to a zero-emissions ferry vessel.
Reducing CO2 emissions
Onboard carbon capture is in its earliest stages of development and deployment as a means of reducing CO2 emissions from shipping. Additionally, developments are underway around the entire carbon capture value chain.
Last year, SS Badger’s route across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin was designated by MARAD, part of the US Department of Transportation, as a Marine Highway route, the Lake Michigan M-90 Marine Highway. The ferry itself was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992.
Three types of freight
The ferry carries three types of freight: traditional semi-trailers, oversized loads, and project cargo.
This past summer operating season, Lake Michigan Carferry halted service due to damage to the ferry’s ramp system to undertake extensive repairs. Plans call for the cross-lake service to resume in 2024.
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Source : riviera
