e1Marine and STAX Engineering have announced a partnership to develop an emissions capture and control system, funded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD).
The project, set for deployment in early 2025, will integrate e1Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen power technology, M2PWR, with STAX’s emissions capture and control (C&C) technology on a barge-based platform.
‘Partnering with STAX Engineering allows e1Marine to showcase how our M2PWR system can provide cleaner power for barge operations while in port,’ said David Lee, Executive Director of e1Marine. ‘We hope this initiative demonstrates that proven solutions are available to reduce port emissions and improve air quality in coastal communities.’
The STAX technology is designed to attach directly to exhaust systems of auxiliary and boiler engines, capturing up to 99% of particulate matter (PM) and 95% of nitrogen oxides (NOx), according to the company. The partnership aims to show the feasibility of using methanol-based hydrogen systems to support clean emissions capture technology, without requiring modifications to existing vessel equipment.
The initiative is part of California Climate Investments, a program using Cap-and-Trade funds to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve public health. e1Marine’s M2PWR system aims to generate hydrogen from methanol to power STAX’s C&C technology onboard, demonstrating a method to capture emissions from vessels and reduce pollution in ports.
Mike Walker, CEO of STAX, added, ‘Our partnership with e1Marine highlights our dedication to providing solutions that are both available now and effective for the maritime industry. We’re excited to integrate e1Marine’s hydrogen-powered generator into our operations, ensuring STAX operates in the most environmentally friendly way possible.’
The aim of the demonstration is to contribute to compliance with emissions regulations and progress toward maritime decarbonisation goals.
Image: e1Marine