By
Alex Smith |
Canadian shipyard AF Theriault & Son has formed a partnership with New Zealan electric ferry design and technology company EV Maritime for the delivery of up to five electric ferries to the Halifax Regional Municipality.
The five ferries will serve Bedford, Nova Scotia. The project will include ferries, terminals and infrastructure, and is estimated to cost around CAD$258.7 million ($189.7 million). The ferries are expected to enter operation in the 2027-2028 fiscal year.
AF Theriault will manufacture and deliver the ferries, the first time that the shipyard has constructed electric vessels. EV Maritime, meanwhile, will supply design, technology and systems integration services, including integrated electrical and control systems.
“This represents an important milestone for both our companies,” said Michael Eaglen, CEO of EV Maritime. “AF Theriault is a highly respected shipyard with over 80 years of history. They are the leading provider of ferries in their region and a mainstay of the rural Nova Scotia economy. Their ability to deliver complex, reliable vessels of this size is second to none and their existing background in marine renewable energy proves their commitment to innovation."
“Having built the last five ferries for Halifax, we are committed to supporting the expansion of Halifax’s ferry service,” said Gilles Theriault, president of AF Theriault. “We’re thrilled to be bringing EV Maritime on board as partner as we start building fully electric ferries that will deliver long-term environmental and regional economic benefits, while also increasing public transport capability in the province.”