WSF selects ABB to power their first hybrid-electric newbuild vessels
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ABB has secured an order with Washington State Ferries (WSF), the United States\u2019 largest ferry operator, to supply and integrate hybrid-electric propulsion systems for two hybrid-electric 160-auto ferries that initiate the owner\u2019s ambitious System Electrification Program.<\/p>\n
With the first two ships scheduled for delivery from Panama City, Fla.-based Eastern Shipbuilding Group, one apiece in 2030 and 2031, the contract also includes an option for a third ferry. WSF has previously announced plans to build up to 16 ships by the end of 2040, as part of a ferry electrification program targeting lower emissions.<\/p>\n
ABB<\/a> will supply and integrate end-to-end systems including power distribution, advanced energy management, and marine automation for ferries that will include the largest ship batteries ever installed in the US. Based on ABB Onboard DC Grid and PEMS power and energy management system, the hybrid-electric propulsion systems will achieve substantially lower fuel consumption and operating costs than existing WSF vessels serving the same routes. Each ship\u2019s 13.2-megawatt-hour energy storage systems will also enable all-electric, emissions-free operations on short routes and in port.<\/p>\n The order builds on ABB\u2019s early-stage involvement as the propulsion single source vendor in the WSF project, announced in 2024, with the contract amended to reflect the confirmed initial shipbuilding contract for two ships plus one option.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Washington State Ferries System Electrification Program is the largest of its kind in the United States, and ABB\u2019s continued involvement, secured through this new order, helps mitigate risk and ensure on-time vessel delivery,\u201d said David Sowers, System Electrification Program administrator for Washington State Ferries. \u201cABB\u2019s state-of-the-art hybrid-electric propulsion systems demonstrate the company\u2019s proven expertise in complex system integration. These systems will substantially reduce emissions and enhance operational reliability across the WSF fleet, advancing our long-term modernization objectives and helping people and businesses thrive throughout the Puget Sound.\u201d<\/p>\n The ABB systems on board will also reduce vessel noise and vibrations, increasing comfort for passengers and crew while minimizing impact to local wildlife and coastal communities.<\/p>\n \u201cThis contract marks another important step in our collaboration with Washington State Ferries,\u201d said Bruce Strupp, vice president Americas, ABB\u2019s Marine & Ports division. \u201cIt reflects the trust placed in ABB\u2019s hybrid-electric propulsion technology and our ability to deliver reliable, scalable solutions that support WSF\u2019s long-term sustainability goals. We\u2019re proud to continue helping WSF modernize its fleet to maintain reliable service and reduce environmental impact.\u201d<\/p>\n The post WSF selects ABB to power their first hybrid-electric newbuild vessels<\/a> appeared first on Marine Log<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n