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Washington State Ferries outlines system electrification goals as construction begins
Summary
WSF program administrator David Sowers described a multi-billion-dollar electrification program that pairs new hybrid-electric vessels with conversions and shore charging; he projected up to 16 hybrid vessels and more than 10 charging terminals and said the program could cut greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 90% when built out.
Washington State Ferries’ program administrator for system electrification described construction of the first hybrid-electric Olympic-class ferry as part of a broader push to electrify the fleet and terminals.
"When the fleet is fully built out complete with up to 16 hybrid electric vessels, vessel conversions, and more than 10 charging terminals, Washington State Ferries will be able to ... reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 90%," David Sowers said, listing partners and technical collaborators and noting the program pairs new-builds with terminal upgrades and workforce development.
Sowers acknowledged technical challenges at larger scales of battery capacity and power, calling the first-of-class vessel ‘‘pushing the frontier’’ for hybrid-electric propulsion at this size. He emphasized that the initiative combines shipbuilding, terminal charging infrastructure, conversions of existing ferries and long-term operational planning.
