Photo: Switch Maritime
The Sea Change, a hydrogen fuel cell passenger ferry, has received approval from the US Coast Guard to commence commercial operations, marking the first-of-its kind in the US. The approval follows the International Maritime Organization’s adoption of a strategy in 2023 aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships, with a target of achieving net zero emissions “by or around” 2050.
Beginning with a six-month pilot service in June under the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority, the hydrogen-powered ferry will then transition to a permanent route. The pilot is funded by the Golden State Warriors and a $3 million grant from the California Air Resources Board.
Developed by Switch Maritime, the vessel has 360-kW Cummins fuel cells, 242-kg hydrogen storage tanks, and 600-kW electric propulsion from BAE. It can travel up to 300 nautical miles per fill-up, accommodate 75 passengers, and reach 15 knots. West Coast Clean Fuels will supply around 50,000 kg of green hydrogen annually.
Across the country, ferries, many equipped with outdated diesel engines, contribute significantly to air pollution, particularly in densely populated and marginalized communities. Switch Maritime CEO Pace Ralli expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Coast Guard and emphasized this milestone’s significance for the maritime industry, sharing that the project showcases the viability of carbon-neutral vessels. The company aims to replace carbon-intensive ferry fleets with zero-emission alternatives and has secured $10 million in funding for future vessel projects. Fuel-cell vessels designed to accommodate 150, 350, and 450 passengers are currently in Switch’s construction pipeline. Ralli shares, “This is not the finish line, but just a starting point from which to build many more.”
