The Port of San Diego and Crowley, a maritime services provider, have come together to break ground on an advanced charging station that will power Crowley’s zero-emissions tugboat, eWolf. This milestone event signifies a significant step forward in the industry’s commitment to decarbonization and reducing emissions within the San Diego community.
The shoreside charging station will serve as a microgrid facility, allowing vessels to recharge quickly while simultaneously reducing peak loads on the community energy grid. The station is equipped with two containerized energy storage systems provided by Corvus Energy, a leading supplier of reliable energy solutions for the maritime sector. By operating during off-peak hours and incorporating a solar power array, the charging station promotes the use of renewable energy while also accommodating other electric equipment and vehicle operations, if necessary.
Each energy container at the charging station will house battery modules with a storage capacity of approximately 1.5 MWh, providing a total capacity of 2,990 kW. Additionally, the station will feature a battery monitoring system, HVAC capabilities, and firefighting and detection technology.
Matt Jackson, Vice President of Advanced Energy for Crowley, expressed his pride in the collaboration with the City of San Diego, stating, Building a sustainable, zero-emission port of the future requires pioneering new and innovative technology, as well as a commitment to partnerships so we can meet the needs of our communities, customers, and people.
Chairman Rafael Castellanos of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners also commended the partnership and Crowley’s dedication to sustainability, saying, Their commitment to sustainability in the maritime industry directly aligns with our own efforts and goals to reduce emissions and improve public health in our communities while also supporting efficient and modern maritime operations.
The eWolf tugboat, currently under construction, is a crucial component of the shared commitment between Crowley and its federal and local partners to invest in and develop emissions-free technology. By operating solely on electricity, the eWolf will showcase the industry’s pursuit of sustainable solutions for maritime operations.
This groundbreaking event demonstrates the collective effort and cooperation between Crowley, the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, the California Air Resources Board, the Port of San Diego, the U.S. EPA, and the U.S. Maritime Administration in achieving their goals of reducing emissions and embracing environmentally friendly practices within the maritime sector.
As the eWolf and its shoreside solar charging station materialize, the project serves as a beacon for the future of maritime operations, one that is anchored in clean energy and a dedication to preserving our environment. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and fostering collaborative partnerships, Crowley and the Port of San Diego have set sail on a course towards a more sustainable and emission-free future.
