STAX Launches New Emission Filter Barges
STAX, a pioneering company in emissions control technology, is set to launch two new emissions filter barges. These barges will play a crucial role in reducing air pollution from maritime vessels. One barge will enhance services at the Port of Benicia, while the other will be the first dedicated emissions filter for tankers at the Port of Los Angeles. This initiative comes in response to new regulations from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) aimed at curbing emissions from on-berth vessels. As the deadline for compliance approaches, STAX is positioning itself as a leader in this vital sector.
New Regulations and Their Impact
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has introduced new regulations that will take effect in 2025. These regulations expand the requirements for reducing emissions from vessels docked at ports. The rules will cover a wider range of vessels, including containerships, tankers, and car carriers. This is a significant step in California’s ongoing efforts to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
One of the solutions to meet these new regulations is shore power, which allows vessels to plug into the electrical grid while docked. However, STAX offers an innovative alternative. Their emissions filter barges are designed to be positioned alongside vessels. A cap is placed over the funnel of the ship to capture exhaust gases. These gases are then filtered through advanced technology on the barge, significantly reducing harmful emissions. STAX has been recognized as a grantee by CARB, highlighting its commitment to environmental sustainability.
In April 2024, STAX announced an exclusive agreement with AMPORTS, a logistics provider specializing in automotive ports. This partnership marks the fourth agreement STAX has secured in just eight weeks. Under this agreement, STAX will deploy its fourth barge at the Port of Benicia, a key entry point for vehicles imported from Asia, Europe, and Mexico. AMPORTS handles around 260,000 imported vehicles annually, accounting for about 20 percent of California’s vehicle imports by sea.
Future Developments and Partnerships
STAX is not stopping with just one or two barges. The company is actively expanding its fleet to meet growing demand. The fourth barge is nearing completion and will soon be operational at the Port of Benicia. Additionally, STAX is putting the finishing touches on its fifth barge, which is scheduled for deployment in 2025 at the Port of Los Angeles. This barge will be part of a five-year agreement with Shell Oil Products, specifically servicing tankers at the Shell Mormon Island Terminal.
This partnership is significant as it marks the first time a company will provide emissions capture services for tankers in California. STAX anticipates delivering around 1,600 hours of emissions capture and control annually. Over the lifetime of this partnership, the company projects it will treat more than 150 tons of emissions. This is a substantial contribution to improving air quality in the region.
STAX is also expanding its services to other major ports, including Long Beach and Oakland. The new CARB regulations also target smaller commercial vessels, such as tugs, emphasizing the need for incremental improvements in emissions. STAX’s innovative approach and strategic partnerships position it as a leader in the fight against maritime pollution, paving the way for a cleaner future in California’s ports.
