The project will fund a zero-emission carbon capture feasibility analysis to convert the current coal-fired steamship S.S. Badger to a zero-emission ferry vessel

The Maritime Administration awarded a $1,000,000 Project Grant to Lake Michigan Carferry Inc. under the United States Marine Highway Grants program (CFDA 20.816) to conduct a feasibility analysis and prepare engineering/design documentation for converting the S.S. Badger, a historic coal-fired steamship, into a zero-emission ferry vessel. The project will evaluate various carbon-reducing technologies, including diesel-hybrid, alternative fuels, carbon capture, and battery systems. The feasibility analysis and design package will provide the necessary documentation for Lake Michigan Carferry to solicit bids from shipyards to complete the vessel conversion. This grant supports the Maritime Administration's objectives of expanding marine transportation options and mitigating landside congestion through innovative, sustainable maritime technologies.

The feasibility analysis will contemplate differing carbon reducing technologies, which may include diesel-hybrid, no-carbon liquid or gaseous fuels, carbon capture technology, and batteries. The project will also prepare the engineering and design documents needed to prepare the interim step of converting the vessel to diesel-hybrid electric propulsion. Activities to be performed the project includes two components component 1 feasibility analysis state of technology studythis feasibility analysis/state of technology study will evaluate the following two broad pathways towards lowering the carbon footprint of the ferry zero or near zero emission technologies that are anticipated to include electrification on board and landside batteries fuel cell and liquid fuels such as methanol and ammonia. Carbon capture which includes a class review CO2 storage and handling case study examples system design general arrangement drawings additional cooling electrical requirements operating and maintenance costs, and an alternatives assessment. Component 2 engineering and design documentation the final contract design package is intended to provide the recipient with sufficient documentation to solicit shipyard bids to convert the current coal-fired steamship S.S. Badger to a zero emission ferry vessel. The design package will at a minimum, address: fire detection alarms and fixed fire suppression evacuation route modifications power deck plans receptacle deck plans lighting deck plans ship communication systems modifications outfitting EG ladders stairs walkways gratings etc sounding vent tubes sounding tables tank capacity curves docking anode plans miscellaneous foundations tanks tank top repair replacement plans; design modifications to the existing HVAC systems machinery crew accommodations passenger etc. Spaces and removal installation plans and associated contractors means and methods. Deliverables expected outcomes none as this is a planning grant. Intended beneficiary lake michigan carferry INC. Subrecipient activities none.