By
Alex Smith |
Technology company ABB is to provide an integrated hybrid-electric power and propulsion solution to ferry operator Casco Bay Lines for its new vessel, which will operate on the route between Portland and Peaks Island along the coast of Maine in the USA.
The 50-metre ferry will be equipped with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power distribution system to enable the vessel to support diesel-electric and battery-powered modes, as well as a combination of both. ABB will also supply an automated shore charging system for installation at the Port of Portland, which automatically connects at the dock and will not require any additional time in port to charge the vessel. The vessel is expected to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide on the route by up to 800 tons.
“This contract is an important milestone for ABB Marine & Ports hybrid-electric propulsion in the US ferry market,” said Bruce Strupp, senior account manager of newbuild at ABB Marine & Ports. “Momentum for lower carbon footprint ferry operations continues to grow worldwide, and ABB is honoured that its integrated electric, digital and connected solutions are being considered integral as more and more US operators replace obsolete vessels to match regulatory and societal demands.”
The vessel will also be enabled with remote monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities through the installation of the ABB Ability Remote Diagnostics System.
“Hundreds of thousands of passengers ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry between Portland and Peaks Island each year,” said Hank Berg, General Manager of Casco Bay Lines. “Increasingly, ferry passengers prioritise sustainability as a service expectation, in addition to reliability and comfort. We look forward to a close collaboration with ABB and we can’t wait to see the end result.”