Sea Change: New Hydrogen-Powered Commuter Ferry in San Francisco
Key Ideas
  • The San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) has launched a new commuter ferry, Sea Change, powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
  • Sea Change will operate between Pier 41 and the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal, offering free rides on weekends to gather data for future applications of hydrogen propulsion systems.
  • The 84-passenger vessel is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell power package, lithium-ion battery, and electric propulsion motors, providing emission-free operation and less maintenance compared to diesel engines.
  • The hydrogen fuel cell powertrain system allows Sea Change to sail up to 300 nautical miles, emitting only water while cruising at speeds exceeding 20 knots, showcasing the viability of hydrogen technology in maritime transportation.
The San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) has introduced a new environmentally friendly commuter ferry named Sea Change, which is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. Operated by Blue and Gold Fleet under contract with WETA, the vessel will offer free rides between Pier 41 and the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal on weekends to gather data for potential future implementation of hydrogen propulsion systems in passenger vessels. Sea Change, owned by SWITCH Maritime, boasts an 84-passenger capacity and is outfitted with a hydrogen fuel cell power package with a total output of 360 kW, alongside hydrogen storage tanks holding 246 kilograms. Additionally, the ferry is equipped with a lithium-ion battery and two 300kW electric propulsion motors for seamless operation. This innovative propulsion system not only enables Sea Change to sail up to 300 nautical miles emission-free but also requires less maintenance compared to traditional diesel engines. With the ability to cruise at speeds exceeding 20 knots while emitting only pure water, the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain system demonstrates the feasibility and advantages of hydrogen technology in the maritime transportation sector.
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