Sea Change: US Coast Guard Approves First Hydrogen-Fueled Vessel for Commercial Operation
Key Ideas
- The Sea Change, a hydrogen-powered catamaran ferry, received the U.S. Coast Guard approval for commercial operation, marking a significant milestone for zero-emission maritime transportation.
- Equipped with 360 kW of fuel cells from Cummins and 600 kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems, the vessel can travel up to 300 nautical miles at speeds of up to 15 knots using hydrogen fuel cells.
- Switch Maritime aims to expand its fleet with larger and faster hydrogen ferries for various markets, providing operators with the opportunity to lease these net-zero vessels after completion, thus promoting sustainable transportation solutions.
- Following a successful pilot service in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Sea Change will be integrated into a permanent ferry route, paving the way for more eco-friendly marine transportation options.
Switch Maritime's Sea Change, a 75-passenger catamaran ferry powered by an integrated hydrogen system, has obtained approval from the U.S. Coast Guard for commercial operation, making it the first hydrogen-fueled vessel in the country to achieve this milestone. The vessel, built at All American Marine shipyard in Bellingham, Wash., features 360 kW of fuel cells from Cummins and 600 kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems. Utilizing hydrogen fuel cells, the Sea Change can operate for up to 300 nautical miles at speeds of 15 knots, showcasing the feasibility of carbon-neutral maritime transport.
Switch Maritime expressed gratitude for the support received during the collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard, highlighting the significance of this achievement for the maritime industry's shift towards sustainability. The company plans to initiate a six-month pilot service with the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) following a formal launch event in June, subsequently integrating the vessel into a permanent ferry route.
In addition to the Sea Change, Switch Maritime is actively developing designs for larger and faster hydrogen ferries intended for various U.S. and international ferry markets. By shouldering regulatory and construction risks for operators and offering leasing options for the new vessels, Switch aims to drive the adoption of net-zero maritime solutions. The successful operation of the Sea Change and the company's future endeavors signal a promising future for environmentally friendly marine transportation options.
Topics
Fuel Cells
Sustainability
Maritime Industry
Public Transportation
Zero-emission Vessels
US Coast Guard Approval
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