Damen begins construction of two fully electric ferries

The vessels are the first of four fully electric ferries to be delivered to the Canadian transportation firm BC Ferries. 

PHOTO: The new ferries are based on Damen's RoRo vessel designs. Damen

Although the impact of these small-scale electric vessels on global gas emissions may be limited, the project will provide crucial technical and operational insights once the ferries are operational, and potentially help develop bigger electric ocean-going vessels in future.

The vessels can transport up to 390 passengers along with 47 vehicles. The ferries will operate on two routes in Canada, between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island and Campbell River and Quadra Island. 

Damen will also provide BC Ferries with charging facilities to recharge the ferries’ batteries. The charging systems will be tested at Damen's Galati shipyard in Romania.

By Manjula Nair

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