Port of Hueneme to deploy STAX Engineering’s emissions capture tech

The Port of Hueneme has partnered with STAX Engineering to launch a new emissions capture and control system. This system, featuring mobile floating barges with filters, aims to reduce harmful emissions from ocean-going vessels. The initiative follows damage to the port’s Shoreside Power system from a major storm that flooded the port last December.

STAX’s system works by surrounding a vessel’s smokestack to capture particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions at the source. Unlike traditional shore power solutions, it doesn’t require modifications to vessels and operates without interrupting their activities. The system is powered by renewable diesel, which, according to the port, is cleaner than electricity from the grid.

“Its cleaned exhaust stream meets the health-protective standards required by CARB. This aligns perfectly with the Port of Hueneme’s commitment to sustainability,” the port added.

“We must continue to move forward towards our goal of becoming a zero emissions port. The storm damage has created an opportunity to continue showing how resilient our port can really be. We are putting the community first through this type of collaboration, and we will continue to pursue these types of partnerships so that our neighbors can rest assured that their port is doing everything in its power to reduce its emissions and continue moving forward toward the goal,” Celina Zacarias, Board President for the Oxnard Harbor District said.

“One of the most important aspects of STAX technology is that it breaks fleet operator dependence on the local grid,” says STAX Engineering CEO, Mike Walker. “Shore power isn’t always available due to factors like major storms, limited outlet access, and vessel incompatibility. Our solution addresses these challenges, providing an easy, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution that solves the at-berth regulation requirements for ports like the Port of Hueneme.”

STAX Engineering said that it has treated 83 at-berth vessels for 4,000 hours and controlled 31 tons of pollutants. Its solution is available in Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland.