Washington State Ferries (WSF) – a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation – has contracted with ABB to help design and build new hybrid-electric-powered 160-automobile-capacity ferry boats.
[Above photo by WSDOT]
Per the new partnership, ABB will select and integrate the technology that will power the new vessels, which includes the engine, batteries, and propeller system. ABB is also in charge of designing a “complete propulsion system,” will oversee the timely delivery of equipment, and offer expertise in equipment installation and commissioning as part of its contract with WSF.
ABB will also play a critical role in training WSF’s crews on the operation and maintenance of these new systems, noted Matt von Ruden, WSF system electrification program administrator.
“Big picture, this contract with ABB is about rebuilding our fleet and restoring reliable service to our customers,” Ruden said in a statement. “ABB’s specialized knowledge and expertise helps reduce risk and ensure performance in the design, construction and delivery of our new hybrid-electric ferries.”
WSF added that its ferry electrification program aims to retrofit six current diesel-powered ferries to hybrid electric propulsion systems; build 16 new hybrid vessels; retire 13 diesel ferries; and add electric charging power units to 16 marine terminals.
WSF recently invited shipyards across the country to bid on construction for the five new ferries. The contract award to one or potentially two shipbuilders is expected in early 2025, with delivery of the first two vessels expected in 2028.
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