The Port of Hueneme on California’s central coast has expanded its maritime emissions mitigation capabilities with the introduction of a second barge-based emissions capture system developed by STAX Engineering. The latest unit, STAX 6, provides emissions control coverage across all commercial terminals at the port and reinforces its intention to become the first zero-emissions port in the US by 2030.
The Port of Hueneme now operates two of the eight emissions capture barges currently active in California. Each barge is equipped with a proprietary system that connects directly to a vessel’s exhaust outlet without requiring onboard modifications. Once connected, emissions are channelled into a barge-mounted purification unit that extracts 99% of particulate matter and 95% of nitrogen oxides prior to atmospheric release.
This latest deployment forms part of the port’s zero emissions 2030 strategic roadmap, a comprehensive decarbonisation initiative launched in response to infrastructure damage sustained by the port’s shoreside power system in late 2023. The barge systems are powered by renewable diesel and provide an operationally flexible solution for emissions control at berth.
Mike Walker, Chief Executive of STAX Engineering, stated: ‘The arrival of STAX 6 means we now serve every commercial terminal at the Port. It’s a major milestone not just for us, but for clean air progress at ports everywhere. We’re not just helping partners meet regulations. We’re building toward a zero-emissions future by integrating best-in-class carbon capture into the most comprehensive emissions control system on the market.’
Jess Ramirez, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Commissioners, commented: ‘We have always been a community-serving port. The port that farmers built. We take that responsibility very seriously. That’s why we continue to lead with innovation as we invest in solutions like these that bring real and tangible benefits.’
As a regional gateway for automotive and agricultural trade, the Port of Hueneme is located in close proximity to residential communities, placing environmental performance high on the local agenda. Kristin Decas, Chief Executive Officer of the Port, said: ‘Commerce and sustainability can go together, and we are proving it. Our collective efforts will protect the Port’s role as a vital economic engine and safeguard community health at the same time.’
STAX Engineering reports that its technology has been used for more than 23,700 operational hours, capturing an estimated 181 tonnes of pollutants from at-berth vessels. The company was recognised in 2024 by Fast Company as one of the ‘Next Big Things in Tech’ for its role in developing flexible and scalable emissions control solutions for the maritime sector.
