Wärtsilä will supply a hybrid propulsion system for a roro ferry being built for the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
The vessel is being built at the Western Pacific Marine shipyard and will serve the Balfour–Kootenay Bay route across Kootenay Lake.
The operator opted for Wärtsilä’s hybrid propulsion system instead of a conventional propulsion arrangement, to help reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
The minimised carbon footprint was cited as being extremely important for preserving the pristine environment in which the vessel will operate. An additional benefit is that through reducing the running hours of the engines, maintenance requirements and costs are also lowered.
Western Pacific Marine president Graham Clarke said “Wärtsilä was selected based on their experience, reputation and know-how in developing, delivering and supporting complex hybrid propulsion systems. These capabilities are extremely important to us, and we very much appreciate and welcome Wärtsilä’s support throughout this project.”
Wärtsilä Canada senior sales manager Dave Adams said “We are proud to be providing the integrated hybrid propulsion solution for the Kootenay Lake replacement ferry, and proud also to be playing our part in preserving the beautiful environment of this interior region of British Columbia. The Wärtsilä Hybrid System is in full alignment with our smart marine approach towards raising sustainability levels for our customers. This solution is also upgradable to achieve zero-emissions operations in the future.”
The scope of Wärtsilä’s supply includes two Wärtilsä 20 generator sets with selective catalytic reduction systems, the hybrid solution with a DC electrical system and batteries, the energy management system, and the vessel alarm and monitoring system. Wärtsilä will also supply the sewage treatment system and will be responsible for the integration of the various onboard systems.
The 89-m long double-ended ferry will be capable of carrying 250 passengers and crew, as well as 61 cars. The British Columbia Government already operates two ferries powered by Wärtsilä 20 engines.
The order with Wärtsilä was placed in January 2021 and delivery is scheduled for H2 2022.
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