The use of fossil fuels and emission of greenhouse gasses has put a strain on many technologies. Currently, products are being developed to create hydrogen fuel cells, which offer a high-performance rate and no carbon emissions. Vehicles such as the Toyota Mirai are some of such development and are working towards a more widespread effect. Ensuring that all products and cars are fitted with hydrogen fuel cells should be our top priority, based on the deteriorating of the atmosphere and environment. The same goes for fuel efficiency and usage in boats and yachts.
It is proven that the switch from diesel to hydrogen would make a significant difference. The switch would not cause any further damage to the environment and will allow non-renewable resources like coal to regenerate and replenish. Using hydrogen will help vehicles stop contributing to climate change which can benefit the environment as well. However, the hydrogen-powered vehicles are yet to be released in the world, this has something to do with the structure of the vehicle. One of the disadvantages to hydrogen fuel is the way it is made. Since hydrogen fuel is entirely renewable, the way it is created determines if it is altogether renewable or not. An advantage to hydrogen fuel is that the water that is emitted as a result of the manufacturing process can be used as drinking water.
Marine vessels such as boats or ships utilize a lot of energy and fuel. It is due to this necessity that the hydrogen fuel cells are being directed mainly towards boats. The Golden Gate Zero Emission Marine is a company that is behind the long-awaited project. After receiving an amount of $3 Million, the project is ready to begin. The project aims is to create the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell ferry. This company is building and sponsoring this mission is based in San Francisco, where they have plans to name the vessel “Water-Go-Round. The company plans to announce that the maritime industry is responsible for at least 2.8% of the World’s Greenhouse Emissions.
The latest design of the vessel is designed to look like a 21-metre long catamaran that is made out of aluminum. Not only is the ferry quite large, it is also said to hold hydrogen fuel cells that can power the boat for two days without refuel. Requiring only hydrogen and oxygen gas, which both have low densities, the battery emits only hydrogen or water as a by-product which doesn’t affect the environment. It is because of the use of low-density gases that the ferry works more efficiently than a normal marine vessel.
The use of hydrogen fuel cells has already begun its course as many future designs are planning to be fitted with the alternative power source. This is but a small step to an eco-friendly world. The company in charge of the ferry is expecting to release the vessel in 2019 and plans to study more on the abilities and performance rates of the hydrogen fuel cells.