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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.
Future-Proof Design
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.
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ABB will also supply digital solutions to provide crews with a clear overview of vessel operations, contributing to safer and more efficient ferry services.
It’s worth considering that the adoption of hybrid and electric propulsion systems in the maritime industry can have a significant impact on reducing emissions and promoting sustainability, as seen in the widespread use of hybrid vehicles in other transportation sectors.
The delivery of the new hybrid ferries is scheduled to start in 2029, and BC Ferries is expected to benefit from the improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact of the new vessels.
The Azipod electric propulsion system, which will be installed on the ferries, offers improved maneuverability and reduced maintenance needs compared to traditional propulsion systems. This is due to its gearless and steerable design, allowing for more efficient and precise control of the vessels.
The Onboard DC Grid power distribution system, also supplied by ABB, will play a key role in minimizing conversion losses and enhancing overall system efficiency. By optimizing energy flow and reducing emissions, this system will contribute to the ferries’ improved environmental performance.
In addition to the hybrid propulsion system, the ferries’ design will incorporate features to reduce underwater noise, which is essential for protecting marine life in the Strait of Georgia. This will be achieved through the use of advanced propulsion technologies and optimized hull designs, minimizing the vessels’ acoustic footprint.
The use of biofuel or renewable diesel in the hybrid configuration will further reduce the ferries’ environmental impact. These alternative fuels offer a more sustainable option compared to traditional fossil fuels, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.
When operating in fully electric mode, the ferries will be able to connect to a shoreside charging system with a capacity exceeding 60 megawatts. This high-power charging capability will enable rapid replenishment of the vessels’ battery storage systems, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted operation.
The digital solutions provided by ABB will also play a vital role in enhancing the safety and efficiency of ferry services. By offering crews a clear overview of vessel operations, these solutions will enable real-time monitoring and optimization of the ferries’ performance, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall reliability.
