STAX Engineering's Groundbreaking CARB Executive Order
STAX Engineering has achieved a significant milestone in the emissions management sector by receiving an executive order from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This groundbreaking order authorizes STAX to service tanker vessels, positioning the company as the first of its kind in emissions capture and control fleet authorized to support all major vessel classes. This designation not only allows STAX to bridge a crucial compliance gap but also supports tankers in adhering to CARB regulations in Southern California beginning this year, with an anticipated statewide rollout by 2027.
Transformative Impact on the Liquid Bulk Cargo Industry
Expanding its services into the tanker sector marks a vital progression for both STAX and the liquid bulk cargo industry as a whole. With tankers facilitating the transport of over $800 billion worth of goods worldwide—from crude oil to chemicals—the need for a safe, efficient method of utilizing shore power has become apparent. As of January 1, 2025, CARB's Ocean-Going Vessels At Berth Regulation aims to enhance compliance for tankers at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, with an expansion to all California ports scheduled for 2027. STAX's approval to service four barges—namely STAX 1, 5, 7, and 8—establishes it as the largest fleet in the sector and the most effective compliance solution for tanker operators.
CEO Insights on STAX's Innovative Technology
Mike Walker, CEO of STAX Engineering, expressed enthusiasm regarding this pivotal moment for both the company and the entire industry. "Tankers form the backbone of global energy infrastructures," he shared. "As California sees the arrival of over 1.3 million barrels of crude oil daily just at its ports, the demand for a safe, effective method to meet rising emissions standards has never been more critical. Our technology adroitly fills this gap by facilitating compliance with regulations and providing cleaner air for communities. This advancement doesn’t merely focus on current needs; it sets the stage for a sustainable future in operations."
A Revolutionary Emissions Capture System
STAX's capability to efficiently service tankers emanates from its innovative mobile, barge-based emissions capture and control system. This method circumvents the need for costly infrastructure upgrades typically associated with shore power, instead connecting seamlessly to a vessel's exhaust without necessitating any modifications. The system captures exhaust from auxiliary engines, successfully removing up to 99% of particulate matter and 95% of nitrogen oxides while adhering to stringent tanker safety protocols. This design is tailored specifically to accommodate the safety and operational intricacies surrounding tanker operations.
Frank Strasheim, Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality at STAX, emphasizes the three pillars of their operations: protecting human life, environmental integrity, and maintaining cargo quality. He notes, "Our unwavering commitment to rigorous safety protocols and ongoing risk management is crucial for maintaining regulatory compliance and operational excellence across all vessel activities, especially given the unique designs and cargo requirements of tankers."
The Flexibility of STAX's Services
The mobility and flexibility inherent in STAX’s design offer tankers a practical alternative to traditional shore power solutions. With container ships, autocarriers, and tankers across five major California ports already benefiting from STAX's approach, operators can take advantage of uninterrupted cargo operations and compliance with emissions and safety regulations without incurring significant capital costs. This model allows for uninterrupted schedules as operators meet evolving environmental standards—all while avoiding the complications associated with vessel modifications.
Strategic Partnerships and Ongoing Collaborations
STAX is actively forming partnerships with leading tanker terminals and operators within the liquid bulk cargo sector. The company has established exclusive agreements to service all tankers at berth F209 in the Port of Long Beach, alongside operations at Shell's Mormon Island Terminal in the Port of Los Angeles, and collaborations with MOL Chemical, among others. By employing this advanced technology, these organizations are making strides in reducing emissions at berth without compromising safety or operational integrity. To date, STAX has treated over 1,192 vessels, spending a cumulative 25,000 hours in operation while removing 190 tons of harmful emissions, with a notable portion of that dedicated to tankers alone.
Industry Insights
Vince Godfrey, CEO at Olympus Terminals, emphasizes the critical nature of safety and operational reliability in the industry, praising STAX's ability to deliver on these essentials. "Considering the inherent complexities of tanker operations, finding a partner able to integrate effortlessly and safely into our customers' port calls is vital. STAX epitomizes this by providing a practical solution that meets our immediate environmental obligations without demanding retrofits that delay compliance."
Growth Plans and Future Prospects
This achievement further builds upon STAX's recent successes, which include securing $70 million in funding aimed at scaling operations. To accommodate growing demand, STAX plans to operate a fleet of 27 barges and maintain a presence in all California ports by 2027, coinciding with the expansion of tanker emissions regulations to Northern California. Presently, STAX’s operations extend to critical ports, including Long Beach, Los Angeles, Hueneme, Benicia, and Oakland. As the sole approved on-call provider in Los Angeles, STAX collaborates with a robust roster of shipping clients, including ZIM, Hyundai GLOVIS, and NYK.
International Expansion
STAX's tanker launch is also part of a broader trend of international momentum as the company recently secured £1.1 million in UK government funding through the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition for the PortZero initiative—a joint endeavor with Seabound, Associated British Ports, and Lomar Shipping. In September, STAX will inscribe its presence at the London International Shipping Week, reflecting the continuously growing demand for scalable emissions solutions as global maritime regulations tighten.
About STAX Engineering
STAX's revolutionary exhaust capture technology is patented and adaptable to any ship without modifications, even in the busiest ports. When exhaust is captured and funneled into the STAX system, it is thoroughly filtered, eliminating 99% of particulate matter (PM) and 95% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) before being released as clean gas. With over 1,192 at-berth vessels treated for a total of 25,000 operational hours, STAX demonstrates an enduring commitment to creating cleaner air solutions. Recently recognized as a winner in Fast Company's Next Big Things in Tech, STAX continues to innovate in the emissions reduction space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of STAX Engineering's CARB Executive Order?
This Executive Order allows STAX Engineering to service tanker vessels, marking a historic step in emissions capture and compliance.
How does STAX's technology benefit tanker operators?
The technology provides a practical way for tankers to meet emissions standards without requiring retrofits or costly infrastructure.
What are STAX’s future expansion plans?
STAX is projected to have a fleet of 27 operational barges across all California ports by 2027, enhancing its service capability.
Which companies are collaborating with STAX?
STAX works with major names such as Olympus, Shell, and MOL Chemical to reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency.
What awards has STAX Engineering received recently?
STAX was recognized in Fast Company's Next Big Things in Tech for its innovative emissions reduction technologies.
