The Future is Electric – Even for the Ferries!
As Washington State Ferries outlines its future – they’re including electrification of the ferry as early as 2021. Check out the WSF long range plan.
OPALCO is excited to work with Washington State Ferries as our mutual vision for an electric ferry fleet takes shape. We’re preparing to provide charging stations at ferry landings to keep the fleet at full speed – and designing our first energy storage battery system to help offset the load.
The electrification of the ferries is not only good for our carbon footprint but the quieter vessels will be good for local wildlife especially the resident Orca Whales.
Stay tuned as this project develops.
Here is another interesting article from the National Resource Defense Council about the ferry electrification: https://www.nrdc.org/stories/future-seattles-ferries-electric.