BC Ferries, one of the largest ferry operators in the world, has awarded a shipbuilding contract to the Damen Shipyards Group for four hybrid electric vessels. These new ferries are set to enter service in 2027 and will operate exclusively in battery-electric mode using renewable BC Hydro electricity to power the charging stations. The vessels are based on the Island Class, which Damen previously delivered to BC Ferries between 2020 and 2022, and will have the capacity for up to 390 passengers and crew, as well as at least 47 vehicles.
The battery packs for the new ferries will have a capacity of 2,000 kilowatts and will supply the electricity for the power trains. The ferries will also have auxiliary diesel engines for backup, an exhaust system to reduce emissions, and environmental systems such as heat recovery and low-friction hull coating. The vessels will be built in Romania, and technical and warranty support for the new vessels will be provided by Point Hope Shipyards in Victoria, British Columbia.
BC Ferries also plans to initiate electrical upgrades for shore-based rapid charging at the four terminals on the routes, which will connect Nanaimo Harbour and Gabriola Island, as well as Campbell River and Quadra Island. Damen will supply the shoreside charging equipment, with the necessary upgrades to be completed in time for the delivery of the ships. This project marks the fourth time Damen has provided shore charging capabilities, with previous projects in Canada, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
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