New deal boosts electric ferries for Canada

Canadian shipyard AF Theriault & Son has struck a partnership with New Zealand’s electric ferry design and technology company, EV Maritime.

This partnership has been formed in relation to Halifax Regional Municipality’s upcoming procurement of electric ferries serving the community of Bedford, Nova Scotia. Expected to be completed in 2027-2028, the project, estimated to cost C$258.7M (US$189.7M), will include ferries, terminals and infrastructure to support Halifax’s growing demand for sustainable transport.

EV Maritime will supply cutting-edge, clean-tech design, technology and systems integration expertise, including integrated electrical and control systems. AF Theriault will manufacture and deliver up to five vessels, marking a significant shift from its traditional diesel-powered boats to electric ferries while drawing on its experience with advanced composite manufacture.

“This represents an important milestone for both our companies,” said EV Maritime chief executive Michael Eaglen. “Our technology transfer business model is an integral component of this partnership. With two carbon composite battery-electric fast ferries under construction at Auckland shipyard McMullen & Wing, we have built a robust knowledge-based framework which will see our team applying their skills, expertise and experience in designing fully electric mid-harbour commuter ferries to the requirements for the new Halifax electric ferry service.”

“Having built the last five ferries for Halifax, we are committed to supporting the expansion of Halifax’s ferry service,” said AF Theriault president Gilles Theriault. “Our visit to New Zealand was instrumental in solidifying this partnership. The opportunity to meet EV Maritime’s design and technical teams, key stakeholders in the transport, marine and international trade sectors along with seeing first hand the two electric ferries commissioned by Auckland Transport which are nearing completion, underpins our confidence in delivering on our project and shared commitment to electric ferry technology.”