The technology group Wärtsilä’s advanced hybrid solution will used in a new ro-ro ferry being built for the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
The vessel is being built at the Western Pacific Marine shipyard, and, when delivered, will serve the Balfour-Kootenay Bay route across Kootenay Lake. The order with Wärtsilä was placed in January 2021.
By opting for Wärtsilä’s Hybrid Solution rather than a conventional propulsion arrangement, the operator will benefit from reduced fuel consumption and a far lower level of 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.
The Wärtsilä Hybrid System is in full alignment with our Smart Marine approach towards raising sustainability levels. This solution is also upgradable to achieve zero emission operations in the future.
Wärtsilä will supply two Wärtsilä 20 generator sets with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, the Wärtsilä’s 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. Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2022.
The 89m double-ended ferry will be capable of carrying 250 passengers and crew, as well as 61 automobile equivalents (AEQs). The British Columbian government already operates two ferries powered by Wärtsilä 20 engines.
