The world’s first hydrogen-fueled ferry, Sea Change, is about to revolutionize clean transportation in San Francisco Bay. Developed by owner SWITCH Maritime with grant support from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), this groundbreaking passenger vessel is powered 100% by zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. It promises to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport for the region.
The Sea Change was officially launched on July 12 by a group of private and public sector partners. Starting from July 19, it will commence operations on a route between Pier 41 and the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal for a six-month trial period. This trial aims to demonstrate the viability of the fuel cell technology while offering free rides to passengers. Chevron New Energies, the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway, and Transportation District, and United Airlines are among the sponsors of this demonstration.
Built by Bay Ship and Yacht in Alameda, Calif., and All American Marine in Bellingham, Wash., the Sea Change is a 70-foot aluminum catamaran based on a design originating from Incat Crowther. The vessel’s entry into service was delayed due to various factors, including the pandemic and challenges associated with gaining U.S. Coast Guard approval for its innovative propulsion technologies. However, with a Certificate of Inspection (COI) issued earlier this year, the ferry is now ready for operation.
Sea Change features an integrated hydrogen power system from Zero Emission Industries, including 360kW of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells from Cummins and 100 kWh of XALT lithium-ion batteries. These power 600kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems. The system produces only water vapor and heat as emissions, making it extremely clean-burning.
The impressive propulsion system enables the Sea Change to reach transit distances up to 300 nautical miles and speeds up to 15 knots, similar to those of diesel-powered vessels. Its average service speed will be around 8-12 knots. This demonstrates that hydrogen fuel cells can provide sustainable solutions without compromising operational capabilities.
The launch of the Sea Change represents a significant milestone in the energy transition of the maritime industry, not only in California but also beyond. The vessel is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that focuses on delivering cap-and-trade funds towards low-carbon transportation and community air protection. As Governor Gavin Newsom emphasizes, California continues to pioneer new technologies to combat the climate crisis and reduce pollution.
With the Sea Change, the partnership between CARB, private sector sponsors, and San Francisco Bay Ferry showcases the potential of hydrogen as a key player in achieving a lower carbon future for public transportation. The ferry’s successful operation will further increase consumer confidence in hydrogen and inspire more investment in sustainable maritime solutions. This impressive vessel sets an example for the rest of the industry and paves the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
FAQ Section:
1. What is the Sea Change?
The Sea Change is the world’s first hydrogen-fueled ferry, powered by zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. It is a 70-foot aluminum catamaran designed for clean transportation in San Francisco Bay.
2. Who developed the Sea Change?
The Sea Change was developed by owner SWITCH Maritime with grant support from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
3. When was the Sea Change launched?
The Sea Change was officially launched on July 12.
4. Where will the Sea Change operate?
Starting from July 19, the Sea Change will operate on a route between Pier 41 and the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal for a six-month trial period.
5. Who are the sponsors of the Sea Change demonstration?
Chevron New Energies, the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway, and Transportation District, and United Airlines are among the sponsors of the Sea Change demonstration.
6. What is the power system used in the Sea Change?
The Sea Change features an integrated hydrogen power system from Zero Emission Industries, including 360kW of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells from Cummins and 100 kWh of XALT lithium-ion batteries. These power 600kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems.
7. What are the emissions produced by the Sea Change?
The Sea Change produces only water vapor and heat as emissions, making it extremely clean-burning.
8. How far can the Sea Change travel?
The Sea Change can reach transit distances up to 300 nautical miles and speeds up to 15 knots, similar to those of diesel-powered vessels. Its average service speed will be around 8-12 knots.
9. What is the significance of the Sea Change in the maritime industry?
The launch of the Sea Change represents a significant milestone in the energy transition of the maritime industry. It showcases the potential of hydrogen as a key player in achieving a lower carbon future for public transportation.
10. How does the Sea Change contribute to the fight against climate change?
By providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport, the Sea Change reduces pollution and supports California’s efforts to combat the climate crisis. It inspires more investment in sustainable maritime solutions.
Key Terms and Jargon:
– Zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells: These are devices that convert hydrogen into electrical energy, producing only water vapor and heat as emissions.
– Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells: These are a type of fuel cell that uses a solid polymer membrane as the electrolyte.
– Cap-and-trade funds: These are funds generated through the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. They are used to support low-carbon transportation and community air protection initiatives.
Suggested Related Links:
– Switch Maritime
– California Air Resources Board (CARB)
– Cummins
– BAE Systems
– California Climate Investments
