SWITCH Maritime's Sea Change: Hydrogen-Fueled Ferry Sets Sail in San Francisco Bay
Key Ideas
  • SWITCH Maritime's hydrogen-powered ferry Sea Change receives Certificate of Inspection from U.S. Coast Guard, marking a significant milestone in the vessel's journey.
  • Sea Change features an integrated hydrogen power system with 360kW of hydrogen fuel cells and 100 kWh of lithium-ion batteries, emitting only water vapor and heat.
  • The ferry's clean-burning propulsion system enables similar operational capabilities to diesel-powered vessels, with a six-month trial beginning in June in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The Sea Change, the United States' first hydrogen-powered ferry, has received a Certificate of Inspection (COI) from the U.S. Coast Guard, allowing it to officially enter service in the San Francisco Bay Area. Built by Bay Ship and Yacht, the 70-foot aluminum catamaran is equipped with an integrated hydrogen power system from Zero Emission Industries. The vessel's propulsion system includes hydrogen fuel cells from Cummins and lithium-ion batteries from XALT, emitting only water vapor and heat. SWITCH Maritime, the company behind the project, plans to commence commercial service in June with a six-month trial operated by the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority. The project, supported by a public-private partnership, aims to demonstrate the viability of carbon-neutral vessels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With funding from CARB and support from various organizations, including the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, SWITCH aims to revolutionize marine transportation with innovative zero-emission designs for ferries.
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