ABB to Equip Washington State Ferries' Third Hybrid-Electric Ferry

ABB has received authorization from Washington State Ferries (WSF), the largest ferry operator in the United States, to supply and integrate the propulsion and power system for the operator's third newbuild hybrid-electric vessel. With this order, ABB's involvement in the program grows from two to three vessels, as part of WSF's plan that contemplates up to 16 new hybrid-electric ferries by 2040.

As with the first two vessels, ABB will equip the third ferry with an integrated propulsion and power solution based on the Onboard DC Grid and the PEMS 4 management system, together with a 13.2 megawatt-hour energy storage system. This configuration enables fully electric, zero-emission operation on short routes and in port, reducing reliance on diesel engines. ABB's scope of supply also covers marine automation, propulsion motors and drives, transformers, propellers and steering systems, as well as technical and commissioning support.

David Sowers, Administrator of Washington State Ferries' System Electrification Program, noted that the authorization of the third vessel represents an important step toward a cleaner and more resilient ferry system, and highlighted that ABB's continuity helps ensure consistency across the different vessels and reduce integration risks. For his part, Bruce Strupp, Director of Marine Systems for the Americas at ABB's Marine & Ports division, stated that the issuance of the Notice to Proceed for Vessel 3 demonstrates WSF's continued confidence in the company's hybrid-electric technology.

Washington State Ferries currently consumes approximately 19 million gallons of diesel per year. Its electrification program aims to reduce emissions by 2040 by 76% for carbon dioxide, 75% for sulfur oxides, 94% for nitrogen oxides, and 90% for particulate matter, with the ultimate goal of achieving a zero-emission fleet by 2050.