FRIDAY
HARBOR, Wash., Sept. 17,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Port of Friday Harbor has been awarded $7 million as part of the Washington State Department of
Transportation's Port Electrification Grant Program. This funding
will enable the Port to launch an expansive program of carbon
reduction projects, further establishing it as a leader in
sustainable maritime practices within the Salish Sea. The grant is
part of a broader $26.5 million
initiative across 11 Washington ports, collectively aimed at
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 140,000 metric tons over
the next decade.
The awarded grant will support the Port of Friday Harbor in its ambitious efforts to
electrify its operations, including the installation of advanced
charging infrastructure for cruise ships and smaller vessels, a
solar canopy and microgrid, and the introduction of several
electric workboats. In partnership with Photon Marine, a leader in
electric propulsion technology, the Port will replace internal
combustion engine vessels with electric alternatives, thereby
reducing emissions and enhancing the region's environmental
health.
"This is an exciting and rewarding time for the Port," said
Todd Nicholson, Executive Director
of the Port of Friday Harbor. "We
are extremely grateful for the support of the community and the
continued funding from our local, state, and federal partners. This
grant allows us to pursue a bold environmental program that not
only addresses climate change but also preserves the pristine
environment of the Salish Sea for future generations."
The partnership with Photon Marine will see the deployment of
advanced electric vessels, including a 24-foot electric pumpout
vessel, a 24-foot electric workboat, and a 28-foot electric
passenger transport boat. These vessels will significantly reduce
diesel particulate and NOx emissions, improve water quality, and
reduce noise pollution, benefiting the local marine life, including
the resident Orca pods.
"Photon Marine is proud to partner with the Port of Friday Harbor on this transformative project,"
said Marcelino J. Alvarez, CEO and
co-founder of Photon Marine. "Our mission to decarbonize marine
propulsion is advancing with this collaboration, marking a key step
toward cleaner, quieter, and more efficient vessel operations in
the Pacific Northwest. This partnership also enables us to
establish the first U.S. node in our electric vessel supercharger
corridor within the Salish Sea. We are thrilled to be contributing
to this program that benefits the environment, the economy, and the
maritime ecosystem."
The Port Electrification Handbook, developed by Pacific
Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), played a critical role in
guiding the Port's strategy. The Handbook highlights the
wide-ranging benefits of port electrification, from environmental
improvements to enhanced energy resilience.
"Port electrification is a crucial step in mitigating the
impacts of climate change and advancing environmental justice in
our maritime communities," said Shannon
Idso, one of the authors of the Port Electrification
Handbook at PNNL. "The Port of Friday
Harbor's initiatives align with our research findings, and
we are excited to see these efforts come to life."
Trades Training and Workforce Development
A key component of this project is the focus on trades training
and workforce development. In partnership with Photon Marine and
Mostar Labs, the Port of Friday
Harbor will deliver specialized training programs designed
to equip workers with the skills needed to maintain and operate
electric vessels, high-voltage systems, and renewable energy
infrastructure. This initiative will create high-value jobs in
electric vessel maintenance, charging system operation, and other
critical areas, ensuring that the local workforce is prepared for
the future of maritime operations.
"This training program is about more than just skills
development," added Alvarez. "It's about building a workforce
capable of supporting the broader transition to a clean maritime
industry. By investing in people, we're ensuring that the benefits
of this project extend beyond environmental impact to include
economic resilience and job creation."
Community Outreach and Engagement
The Port of Friday Harbor and
Photon Marine are committed to involving the community throughout
this transformative process. An extensive community outreach
strategy is planned, including hybrid meetings, virtual sessions,
and public events designed to engage local stakeholders. The
project team will host a series of "Demo Days," allowing residents,
businesses, and potential customers to experience the new electric
vessels firsthand. These events will also serve as educational
opportunities, featuring STEM programs aimed at K-12 students,
where they can learn about marine electrification and its
benefits.
A significant focus will be on the Commercial Boatshare Program,
which will allow local operators, including small businesses and
minority-owned enterprises, to access the new electric vessels at
discounted rates. This initiative not only promotes cleaner
propulsion but also fosters inclusive economic growth by supporting
small-scale operations in the region.
This project not only reflects the Port's commitment to
sustainability but also sets a precedent for other ports across the
region and the country. As the Port moves forward with its
electrification initiatives, it will continue to engage the
community, local businesses, and environmental groups to ensure
broad-based support and participation.
Up Next: New Orleans International Workboat Show
Photon Marine intends to demonstrate its electric propulsion
technology at this year's International Workboat Show in
New Orleans. A 24' Silverback
Grizzly with twin Photon P300s will be available for sea trials.
Additionally, Photon will host two panels during the event,
including one discussing this program and how it is applicable to
other ports and port businesses. The event takes place from
November 12-14 at the New Orleans Convention Center.
Find us at: https://www.photonmarine.com
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SOURCE Photon Marine