This week a San Francisco Bay ferry made an incredible stride toward greener transport. The Sea Change is the world's first passenger vessel to entirely run on zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. In a move towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, the ferry exhausts water, which experts say is safe to drink.

About Hydrogen Fuel Cells

The vessel is powered entirely by zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. These cells generate electricity via a chemical reaction between the liquid hydrogen and oxygen, leaving clean water safe to drink as the only byproduct. Whereas traditional diesel ferries produce greenhouse gases and other pollutants as they operate.

Clean energy solutions are an essential part of the future of transport and energy, hydrogen as a fuel source is gaining traction due to its high energy density and quick refuelling capabilities, with menial environmental impact and reduced operational costs compared to finite fossil fuels.

About the Sea Change:

The Sea Change, introduced by the Bay Area's maritime authorities, is a huge stride in sustainability for zero-emission transport solutions. Unlike conventional ferries that rely on diesel engines, the Sea Change harnesses the power of hydrogen fuel cells to power its journey.

Along with a more efficient and reliable ride, the vessel boasts a quieter ride than traditional ferries. Sea Change has a top speed of around 15 knots and the capacity to carry up to 150 passengers.

It is expected that more cities and ferry operators will follow suit and begin implementing similar technology to reduce their environmental impact, and costs, and move towards a greener future for all. It demonstrates that sustainable technologies are not only viable but a realistic option to revolutionise traditional industries.

Other hydrogen-powered vessels:

While the Sea Change is impressive, it is not the first of its kind. In 2015, one of Norway’s leading ferry and express boat operators, Norled AS launched its first battery-powered car ferry (the MF Ampere), the country now has more than 70 electric ferries in operation.

The company worked closely with the Norwegian Maritime Authority and DNV to establish the first hydrogen propulsion regulations for the industry, and in March 2023 MF Hydra embarked on its maiden journey.

MF Hydra was the first passenger and car ferry to be powered by liquid hydrogen and two Ballard 200kW FCWave fuel cell models. The ferry can carry up to 295 passengers, 8 crew members and 80 vehicles, and sails on the triangular route between Hjelmeland-Skipavik-Nesvik in Norway.