Swiss technology group ABB has received an order for an energy, propulsion, and control solution for four new hybrid ferries operated by BC Ferries in Canada. The vessels are being built by CMI Weihai in China and are scheduled for delivery starting in 2029.
BC Ferries serves 47 terminals year-round across 25 routes, transporting approximately 9.7 million vehicles and 22.7 million passengers annually.
New Hybrid Ferries
As part of its ‘New Major Vessels’ programme, BC Ferries is now procuring four new double-ended ferries, vessels equipped with ramps on both sides for vehicle loading and unloading.
The ferries are expected to be around 172 metres long, with a capacity for 360 cars and 2,100 passengers each.
They will operate in Canada’s Strait of Georgia, the body of water separating Vancouver Island from the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.
Hybrid Propulsion System
The Chinese shipyard CMI Weihai was commissioned to construct the four ferries, which will be equipped with diesel-battery hybrid propulsion systems and designed for future conversion to fully electric operation.
The hybrid ferries are expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and lower underwater noise to better protect marine life, such as the orcas inhabiting the operational area.
ABB will supply the energy, propulsion, and control technology for the vessels, including its gearless, steerable Azipod electric propulsion system and Onboard DC Grid power distribution system.
Each ferry can be equipped with battery storage systems with a capacity of 70 megawatt-hours (MWh), enabling efficient hybrid operation and simplifying a future transition to fully electric operation.
Related: Web Access Blocked for Users
Future Conversion to Fully Electric
The hybrid configuration will use biofuel or renewable diesel, and for fully electric operation, the vessels can be connected to a shoreside charging system with a capacity exceeding 60 megawatts.
ABB will also supply digital solutions to provide crews with a clear overview of vessel operations, contributing to safer and more efficient ferry services.
The Azipod electric propulsion system, to be installed on the ferries, offers improved manoeuvrability and reduced energy consumption. This system eliminates the need for traditional propulsion shafts and rudders, allowing for a more efficient use of space on board and reducing the risk of damage from ice or other obstacles.
The Onboard DC Grid power distribution system is designed to optimize energy use on the ferries, minimizing power losses and reducing the strain on the vessels’ engines. This system enables the efficient distribution of power from the battery storage systems, diesel generators, and other power sources, ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply.
The use of biofuel or renewable diesel in the hybrid configuration will further reduce the ferries’ environmental impact. These fuels produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for both the local community and the marine ecosystem.
The shoreside charging system, with a capacity exceeding 60 megawatts, will enable the ferries to recharge their batteries quickly and efficiently when in port. This system is significantly more powerful than standard fast-charging stations, allowing the ferries to maximize their use of electric propulsion and minimize their reliance on fossil fuels.
As BC Ferries continues to invest in sustainable technologies, the new hybrid ferries will play a key role in the company’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. With the support of ABB’s advanced technology and the expertise of CMI Weihai, BC Ferries is well-positioned to achieve its sustainability goals and provide a cleaner, more efficient ferry service for its passengers.
The integration of digital solutions on the ferries will also enhance the overall efficiency and safety of operations. By providing crews with real-time data and insights, ABB’s digital solutions will enable BC Ferries to optimize its services, reduce maintenance costs, and improve the passenger experience.