- Vigor Shipyard has completed the hybrid-electric conversion of WENATCHEE, marking it as the largest U.S. passenger ferry to undergo electrification.
- The 202-vehicle, 2,500-passenger Jumbo Mark II-class vessel is set to return to the Seattle–Bainbridge Island route in summer 2025.
Conversion Highlights:
- Removal of two diesel generators.
- Installation of two battery rooms housing 864 battery modules weighing 36 tonnes.
- Upgrades to propulsion control systems, electrical and fiber-optic cabling, and passenger areas.
Environmental Impact:
- Part of Washington State Ferries’ System Electrification Program, aiming to modernize six existing ferries and build 16 new hybrid-electric vessels by 2040.
- Once operational with shore charging, the WENATCHEE, along with sister vessels TACOMA and PUYALLUP, is expected to reduce diesel consumption by over 4.7 million gallons annually and cut greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 95%.
Next Steps:
- Sea trials and crew training are underway.
- Final approval from the U.S. Coast Guard is anticipated before the vessel re-enters service.
Source: Vigor
