The first of 10 new, all-electric ferries has been delivered from the Astilleros Gondán shipyard in Spain, which equipment supplier ABB says opens a new age of emission-free commuter services along Lisbon’s Tagus River, in the latest example of green transformation from Portugal’s capital city.
The vessel, whose operations rely on an integrated power, automation, energy storage and propulsion solution from ABB, has now been delivered to the ferry operator Transtejo. Replacing a fleet of older, fossil fuel-burning ferries, the 40m, 540-passenger vessels will improve passenger comfort and reduce operation and maintenance costs.
With power distribution managed by ABB Onboard DC Grid ensuring that output of each ship’s 1,860kWh battery pack is safe, reliable and optimized, ABB estimates the new ferries will cut about 6,500t in CO2 emissions along the Tagus river every year. ABB is also providing the control and rectifier systems for shore power as well as an advanced communications system which identifies the vessel arriving, its charging status and the power required, enabling the ferries to recharge within 5-10 minutes.
Antonio Pacheco, Director GRP Division, Astilleros Gondán said: “Delivering the first of these 10 ferries is an important milestone for us, and it is a joy to see her on the water in Lisbon. We very much look forward to delivering the other nine.”
Ferry electrification is a key part of Portugal’s strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Lisbon’s is proud of its reputation as one of the most environmentally-friendly cities, with the electric ferry programme continuing a transformative period for a municipality which won the 2020 European Green Capital award.
Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports said: “Lisbon is making waves as a pioneer in environmentally-friendly public transportation, as many of the world’s cities realise the benefits electric ferries bring for sustainability. ABB’s leading position in integrated electrification solutions for urban ferries is a highly visible example of our work to make the maritime industry safer, smarter, and more sustainable. We at ABB are proud to play a key role in shaping shipping’s new reality.”
With data from the Maritime Battery Forum showing 586 battery powered vessels in operation worldwide, and 195 more on order, ferry owners remain at the forefront of switching to hybrid and electric vessel propulsion. ABB works closely with ferry companies, supplying integrated hybrid and electric propulsion solutions. Recent projects include the Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls tour boats, ‘Fusion Class’ ships for P&O Ferries, a new ferry connecting mainland Iceland and Vestmannaeyjar island, and ferry conversions for Swedish owner ForSea Ferries.
