Sustainability at sea: How the Maritime Industry is Powering Through the Energy Transition

On this episode we step aboard a hydrogen-powered ferry that’s hoping to lead the shift away from fossil fuels in a carbon-intensive industry. We’ve examined technologies that are helping the energy transition on land, such as wave drilling technology and data-driven tools that help consumers slash emissions, and in the air with aviation companies working to develop hydrogen-powered engines and sustainable aviation fuel. Today we’re casting a wider net and looking at sustainability at sea.  Pace Ralli, co-founder and CEO at SWITCH Maritime, joins us to discuss how his company is building the first fleet of zero-emissions vessels in North America. Their flagship zero-emissions ferry, The Sea Change, is currently undergoing sea trials and is powered by hydrogen fuel cells and batteries. What are some of the challenges SWITCH has faced during this transition? How has the maritime industry evolved and is this the starting point for a wider shift across the industry? Listen as Pace takes us through his journey as a climate-tech investor and what led him to focus on hard-to-decarbonize sectors like maritime.  Remember to subscribe so you don’t miss a single show, and please do let us know your thoughts and comments.  The Interchange podcast is brought to you by Schneider Electric.  Are you looking for more energy control but worry about the upfront costs of a microgrid and renewables? Schneider Electric have you covered. Schneider Electric offers Energy as a Service for customers like you who spend $40,000 or more each month on energy. With Energy as a Service, you get customized solutions to help you meet goals for sustainability, efficiency, and cost control — including a microgrid and adjacent energy infrastructure. They also handle every step of the process and assume financial and operational risks.  Upgraded electrical equipment. Reduced emissions. Predictable long-term pricing. Energy as a Service provides all this, and more.  Visit se.com/us/eaas to find out if Energy as a Service is right for you.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.