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World's First Hydrogen-Powered Commercial Ferry Sets Sail on San Francisco Bay, Offering Free Rides

The MV Sea Change, the world's first hydrogen-powered commercial passenger ferry, will debut on San Francisco Bay on July 19. The boat will transport up to 75 passengers along the waterfront and will be free for the first six months as part of a demonstration project. The Sea Change demonstrates the potential of hydrogen fuel cells, with a 300 nautical mile range and 16 hours of operation before refuelling.

MV Sea Change
Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea

California officials announced on Friday that the MV Sea Change, a 70-foot catamaran, will begin operations on July 19, marking a big step towards eliminating diesel-powered vessels and lowering carbon emissions.


The MV Sea Change will shuttle up to 75 passengers along the waterfront, between Pier 41 and the downtown San Francisco ferry terminus. In order to encourage the adoption of this innovative technology, the service will be free for the first six months as part of a pilot programme.

MV Sea Change
Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea

Jim Wunderman, chairman of the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority, voiced his enthusiasm for the potential significance of this hydrogen-powered boat. He went on: "If we can operate this successfully, there are going to be more of these vessels in our fleet and in other folks' fleets in the United States and we think in the world."


The Sea Change is outfitted with fuel cells that mix oxygen and hydrogen in an electrochemical reaction, generating energy while emitting water as a byproduct. With a range of almost 300 nautical miles and the ability to run for 16 hours without refuelling, this unique vessel demonstrates hydrogen's promise as a clean energy source.

MV Sea Change
Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea

The shipping industry accounts for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, hence the deployment of hydrogen fuel cells is an important step towards lowering its environmental impact. Frank Wolak, president and CEO of the Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Energy Association, underlined the significance of this finding, saying, "There is tremendous potential here. This is how you may start reducing the carbon intensity of your ports."


The International Maritime Organisation, which governs commercial shipping, plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by half by midcentury. The adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in the maritime sector could help to achieve this goal. Additionally, supporters of hydrogen-powered transportation anticipate a future in which container ships are driven by this clean energy source.

MV Sea Change
Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea

While hydrogen poses its own environmental and climate problems, the Biden administration is actively encouraging its usage as an energy source for a variety of industries. With a $8 billion commitment to promote the development and supply of clean hydrogen, the government hopes to spur innovation and hasten the transition to sustainable energy sources.


The Sea Change project, sponsored and managed by investment firm SWITCH Maritime, came to life through partnership between Bay Ship and Yacht in Alameda, California, and All-American Marine in Bellingham, Washington.

 
  • The MV Sea Change, the world's first hydrogen-powered commercial passenger ferry, will begin operating on San Francisco Bay on July 19.

  • The ferry will transport up to 75 passengers along the waterfront and will be free for the first six months as part of a pilot program.

  • The Sea Change showcases the potential of hydrogen fuel cells, with a range of 300 nautical miles and 16 hours of operation before refueling.


Source: AP NEWS

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