Wartsila Partners To Build USA’s First Zero-Emission High-Speed Ferries

Wärtsilä Technology Group signed a strategic partnership agreement to develop the first high-speed, zero-emission ferries in the United States.

As part of the Rapid Electric Emission-Free Ferry Program, Wärtsilä’s Fleet Electrification and Systems Integrator Services will benefit San Francisco’s Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA). The program aims to decarbonise San Francisco Bay’s high-capacity, high-speed ferry assistance.

In accordance with this agreement, WETA and Wärtsilä—will collaborate to complete concepts for the vessels and charging systems. This project represents a significant turning point in the maritime industry’s effort to become carbon neutral.

WETA Executive Director Seamus Murphy is proud to lead the country’s cleanest fleet of high-speed ferries and believes that Wärtsilä’s expertise will be crucial to reaching zero emissions.

Wärtsilä Marine Power’s Director of Sales of the AMER region, Hanno Schoonman, highlighted the company’s involvement in the project as evidence of its solid performance in systems integration and emission-free propulsion.

Once the project passes the conceptual stage, two larger and three smaller electric-powered ferries and vessels will be built. This phase includes adding battery charging floats and is expected to start construction by the end of 2023. Commercial operations are projected to begin in 2025.

Taking a proactive stance in adhering to the latest regulations set forth by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), WETA’s dedication to sustainability surpasses the state’s climate targets. The organisation wants to further establish its leadership in the industry by expediting the implementation of zero-emission practices above and beyond what is required by regulations.

Reference: Wartsila

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Source: Maritime Shipping News