BC Ferries implements Clean Future Plan by bringing hybrid electrical ferries
Company wants to move towards green future by taking sustainable initiatives
BC Ferries is taking steps towards environmental sustainability by introducing “BC Ferries Clean Futures Plan.” with new hybrid electric ferries. These vehicles will consume less carbon emission and as a result it will protect marine ecosystems along the BC Coast. As a part of this initiative, BC Ferries is focusing on five key actions: 1) Renewable and Alternate fuels 2) Electrification 3) Operational efficiencies 4) Advanced Technologies 5) Fleet Modernization. By implementing this will enhance the energy efficiency and will support more greener transportation system for passengers.
1) Renewable and Alternate fuels: After successful trials with bio diesel and renewable diesel in 2022, which has proved to reduce the carbon intensity. Thus, we plan to expand these two fuels and aim to use renewable natural gas for existing 6 natural gas operated vehicle and future fleet.
2) Electrification: BC Ferries is making investments in electrification by implementing battery electric ferries and installing charging infrastructure at terminals. These will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This approach of pugging in the vessels to electric power shore along with the focus on electrifying the vehicle will greatly increase the chances of emissions reduction target.
3) Operational efficiencies: engineering and fleet teams work together so that they can find different ways to operate the vessels to make sure they are efficient. That’s why they utilises effective route plan, consistent and efficient speed. They closely collaborate with terminal team to minimize schedule disruption and save energy consumption as much as possible.
4) Advanced Technologies: we are constantly seeking innovation to reduce energy consumption and to reduce emission. So, we are upgrading our hull coatings, retrofitting vessels with emission reduction kits along with inventing in automated docking system.
5) Fleet Modernization: we will replace aging vessels with energy efficient design that reduce emission by at least 75% per nautical mile. This design will be in service from 2029.
“As one of the world’s largest ferry operators, we recognize the urgent need to invest in cleaner technology,” said Jill Sharland, President and CEO of BC Ferries.
BC ferries is one of the largest ferry operators in the world, it has more than 25 routes. There operation started in 1960 with only two ferries but now they have 37 ferries, and it transports more than 22 million passengers as well as 8 million vehicles across the British Columbias coastal water each year. BC ferries play important role in connecting communities/societies also supporting local economies with strong commitment to safe, secure, efficient and sustainable travel.
Call to action
Passenger can contribute to BC Ferries’s sustainable effort by choosing ferries as an eco friendly travel option. For more information please visit Connecting the Coast | BC Ferries
Krupa Gadhwana
Public Relation Officer
2556555565