Port of Los Angeles lands $31M grant to demonstrate zero emission harbor craft

In California, in partnership with Catalina Express and Harbor Breeze Cruises, the Port of Los Angeles will soon begin emission-reduction technology demonstration projects for specialized harbor craft, thanks to a $31 million grant awarded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The project will involve testing and evaluation of two different harbor craft emission-reduction technologies, and a comprehensive evaluation of next-generation, less-polluting harbor craft.

Additionally, in partnership with Harbor Breeze Cruises, the LA MER project will entail the design, construction and deployment of two zero-emission capable excursion boats. The vessels are expected to exceed the regulatory definition of a Zero-Emission Advanced Technology (ZEAT) vessel and will be able to operate a minimum of 30% of the time in zero-emission mode, with some trips operating as much as 100%, depending on route length and other factors. 

The project capstone will be a detailed evaluation on the feasibility and commercial status of both emission-reduction technologies, including identifying infrastructure gaps for zero-emission harbor craft and the potential for marinizing the diesel particulate filter. The evaluation will also look at workforce development needs related to training harbor-craft workers in new engine technologies and advanced battery-electric solutions for tugs, ferries and pilot boats operating in the San Pedro Bay.