SWITCH Maritime Leads the Way in Hydrogen-Powered Vessels Expansion in the US
Key Ideas
- SWITCH Maritime, in collaboration with LH2 Shipping and LMG Marin, is spearheading the construction of a cutting-edge, zero-emission RoPax vehicle ferry in the US using liquid hydrogen as fuel.
- The Sea Change, SWITCH's first hydrogen-powered vessel, has been successfully operating in the San Francisco Bay Ferry system, showcasing the potential of LH2 fueling in maritime transportation.
- The company's strategic focus on hydrogen is driven by its high energy density, enabling greater range and power without the need for fixed charging infrastructure, making it a practical solution for zero-emission vessel operations.
- SWITCH's innovative approach includes plans to transition from gaseous hydrogen storage to cryogenic liquid hydrogen for larger vessels, ensuring faster refueling speeds and catering to increased energy demand.
SWITCH Maritime, a US shipowner, is at the forefront of the energy transition in US maritime shipping with its hydrogen-powered vessels. Collaborating with LH2 Shipping and LMG Marin, SWITCH is embarking on a new project to construct an 80-car, 300-passenger RoPax vehicle ferry using liquid hydrogen fuel, building on the success of its first hydrogen-powered vessel, the Sea Change. The Sea Change, a 75-passenger catamaran ferry, has been operating in the San Francisco Bay Ferry system since July 2024, showcasing the practicality of LH2 fueling. SWITCH's CEO, Pace Ralli, highlights the company's commitment to pioneering zero-carbon LH2 fueling for heavy workboats with the support of industry partners and the US Coast Guard. SWITCH's strategic choice of hydrogen as a fuel source is motivated by its high energy density, offering greater range and power capabilities while simplifying zero-emissions vessel operations by eliminating the need for fixed charging infrastructure. As SWITCH plans for larger zero-emission vessels, including 300+ passenger ferries and harbor tugs, the company aims to transition to cryogenic liquid hydrogen for enhanced storage and faster refueling speeds. This innovative approach underscores SWITCH's dedication to sustainability, innovation, and zero-emission transportation in the maritime industry.