Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego has commenced the selection process for a shipyard to design and assemble a unique Coastal Class Research Vessel (CCRV), which will be the first of its kind to primarily run on renewable fuels. The institution issued a request for proposals to choose a shipyard capable of executing the final construction of this groundbreaking vessel. The CCRV will feature a dual-powered hydrogen fuel cell/diesel electric hybrid system, able to complete most of its missions on liquid hydrogen alone, thereby achieving zero emissions. This vessel will also provide a quiet operation profile, enhancing its ability to collect contamination-free samples. According to Bruce Appelgate, Associate Director at Scripps Oceanography, the development of the CCRV represents a significant milestone, showcasing advanced power and control technologies. The project's design has been approved by relevant authorities, and the shipyard selection is set to be finalized by June 20, 2025. The vessel will support California-focused research missions addressing environmental challenges such as ocean acidification and sea-level rise. As a replacement for the aging Research Vessel Robert Gordon Sproul, the CCRV will join the U.S. Academic Research Fleet to further research and educational aims. The CCRV project, supported by the State of California and the U.S. Office of Naval Research, aims to revolutionize clean energy use in marine research. Initial feasibility studies were led by Sandia National Laboratories and Glosten, highlighting its role in promoting carbon neutrality in maritime operations.