Hueneme Hosts Solar-Hybrid Vessel

An alternative fuel vessel, the solar-powered car carrier MV Emerald Ace, made a first-time call at the Port of Hueneme on March 26, delivering a cargo of BMW autos destined for U.S. markets.

Emerald Ace is equipped with a hybrid electric power supply system that combines a 160kw solar generation system with lithium-ion batteries that can store up to 2.2MWh of electricity. Electricity is generated by the solar power generation system while the vessel is underway and stored in the batteries. The batteries provide all the electricity the vessel needs, resulting in zero emissions at the pier.

"We are a world-class port, hosting world-class vessels,” said Port Commission President Jason Hodge. "The visit of Emerald Ace demonstrates the efforts of industry to serve as stewards of the environment while balancing the essential flow of our nation’s goods and commodities. Our shoreside power project scheduled to come online by the close of the calendar year shows the steadfast commitment of the port to keep pace with the move toward clean maritime technology.”

American Association of Port Authorities
Asociación Americana de Autoridades Portuarias
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