20 SEPTEMBER 2017 • FOGHORN FOGHORNFOCUS: TECHNOLOGY About the Author Joe Burgard is the Vice President of Operations at Red and White Fleet. He has presented at the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends. Red and White Fleet is a participating member of the PVA Green WATERS Program. 20 percent savings in diesel consump- tion. Given the current price of diesel, the payback time on the initial invest- ment is not as quick as it would be if the prices return to a level that would make Gulf oil platforms fully produc- tive again. Nonetheless, our numbers show that there is an acceptable ROI. The hybrid system’s power manage- ment and electric traction motors allow for the propulsion energy to come from any electrical source whether it be a Tier III diesel generator, batteries, or a fuel cell. We see the basic components of the system as giving us the flex- ibility to evolve the vessel over time and we are presently working on the electric infrastructure that will allow us to operate the vessel in the all-electric mode throughout our cruises. Another consideration is the stability of energy costs and their comparative value. In comparing electric rates with fossil fuel rates over time, one can quickly see that electric rates are far more stable and more affordable than fossil fuels. Looking at renewable sources of electricity, one can find opportuni- ties for long term fixed energy prices not available to those purchasing fossil fuels. Lastly, while our operating profile allows us a number of economic cases for going with a hybrid electric systems, we believe it is an impera- tive that we do now what we can to benefit the health of our community. Red and White Fleet takes deep pride in bringing visitors onto San Francisco Bay to experience the natural beauty of our area—from iconic bridges, islands and architecture to whales, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean—and we do this with great commitment to our steward- ship of the environment and respect of our community, both of which make our home and mission so unique. n Learn more about how you can save money and enhance your corporate image with the PVA Green WATERS Program at http://www.passengervessel. com/member-resources.html#greenwaters