Pratik Bijlani –
The maritime industry has taken a monumental step towards alternative fuel technology with the introduction of the first hydrogen-powered ferry, Sea Change. Developed by SWITCH Maritime, this 75-passenger catamaran marks a significant milestone after five years of development and numerous delays. Last Friday, Sea Change received its Certificate of Inspection from Captain Taylor Lam, USCG Sector San Francisco commander, officially making it the first zero-emission public ferry.
The Sea Change will be in operation for six months following a formal launch event in June by the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA). After this demonstration period, SWITCH plans to integrate the vessel into a more permanent ferry route. “This COI represents the culmination of years of close collaboration with the US Coast Guard and a significant milestone for the maritime industry, demonstrating the viability of carbon-neutral vessels,” stated Pace Ralli, CEO of SWITCH. He emphasized that this achievement is merely the starting point for further advancements in the field.
The Sea Change utilizes hydrogen fuel cells to power all-electric motors, offering operational capabilities and ranges comparable to diesel-powered vessels without the need for shoreside charging infrastructure. The ferry can transit distances up to 300 nautical miles and reach speeds of up to 15 knots. Built at All American Marine shipyard in Bellingham, Washington, and launched in August 2021, the 70-foot catamaran was designed by Incat Crowther.
The vessel features an integrated hydrogen power system from Zero Emission Industries, with 360kW of fuel cells from Cummins and 600kW of electric motor propulsion from BAE Systems. Its Hexagon Purus tanks can store 242kg of hydrogen in a gaseous form at 250 bar pressure.
SWITCH Maritime, founded in 2018, aims to develop, finance, build, and lease zero-emission maritime vessels. The company is actively working on additional designs for 150-, 300-, and 450-passenger zero-emission ferries, highlighting the potential for hydrogen-powered vessels to transform the industry.
Marex Media