All transport sectors are turning to decarbonisation solutions to slash their emissions, and shipping is very much one of them.

So when the Energy Observer, a unique hydrogen-powered zero-emission 100-foot catamaran recently docked in San Fransisco bay, heads turned.

Wherever it goes the futuristic and entirely ‘green’ vessel raises questions and what’s more offers the solutions, about how to stop the shipping industry emitting CO2.

Not only does the Energy Observer walk the walk when it comes to the environment, (it is 100% non-CO2 emitting), it also captures the imagination of what is possible with renewable energy.

The vessel generates its own Hydrogen through the electrolysis of sea-water (splitting and capturing the Hydrogen from the Oxygen using its own on-board renewable energy).

In addition to its hydrogen capabilities are two vertical wings for capturing wind power, and a vast block of solar panels for storing energy from the sun.

At the forefront of renewable technology and looking like something out of a sci-fi movie, San Francisco is a natural place for this boat to be.

The catamaran is in effect a sea-going research lab, and is now in its fourth year of a six year demonstration tour.

Managing Director Louis Noel Vivies says “What we want to prove and showcase is it’s time to shift.”

“…hydrogen power is very safe, our crew sleeps right next to it, and we have sailed 35,000 miles with absolutely no incident,” said Vivies.

Its previous US stop was Long Beach, and at each port, policymakers, business leaders and other mariners meet with the Energy Observer’s crew, to learn more about zero-emission technology.

“It’s time to go to the electric, the hydrogen, the solar energy because there’s no need to wait for it.”

The project is in part financed by Toyota and powerfully demonstrates how efficient the various sources of renewable energy being utilised are.

The Paris Olympics have already commissioned the development of hydrogen powered zero-emission generators for its events and concerts.

After San Francisco, the catamaran heads to Hawaii, followed by the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

“We have no noise, no vibrations, no odors,” said Vivies, describing the tranquility of being on the zero-emission boat.

“You produce your own freshwater, you produce your own energy, so you go where you want, and the silence is incredible.”