Port of Hueneme aims to capture smokestack emissions with innovative technology

The Port of Hueneme is collaborating with STAX Engineering to establish technology to capture and control the smokestack emissions from vessels. The system consists of a mobile floating barge that can place filters on the stacks of oceangoing vessels to capture particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and other polluting air emissions.

“The emissions capture-and-control system exemplifies our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, which is in our Port DNA, and highlights the flexibility of the port’s response to finding new solutions in the maritime industry,” says Kristin Decas, the port’s CEO and director.

The port sought out the new technology to mitigate the impacts resulting from its shoreside power system being damaged last December during a storm that caused extensive flooding.

“One of the most important aspects of STAX technology is that it breaks fleet operator dependence on the local grid,” says STAX Engineering’s CEO Mike Walker. “Shore power isn’t always available due to factors like major storms, limited outlet access, and vessel incompatibility.”

STAX Engineering has designed the system so that no vessel modifications are required. Nor does it disrupt a ship’s operations while at berth. The system’s floating barge is fueled with renewable diesel and has a cleaned exhaust stream that meets the California Air Resources Board (CARB) health-protective standards.