Commercial, Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions  -  November 26, 2024

Lake Tahoe Debuts Electric Ferry

Lake Tahoe will launch its first electric hydrofoil ferry, FlyTahoe, to lower emissions.

The zero-emission hydrofoiling ferry will reduce travel times for Tahoe locals and visitors, providing a much needed north-south connection across the lake while also helping to cut emissions.

FlyTahoe will feature a 30-minute cross-lake service, cutting the travel time in half compared to the daily 20,000 car trips along the same route. The ferry will create a vital link to the 14  ski resorts encircling the lake, making it an ideal option for tourists and locals.

The Candela P-12 is also a fast electric vessel with significantly lower operational costs than diesel-powered vessels. It recently launched on Stockholm’s waterways and combines long range with high speed and a revolution in energy efficiency.

The 30-seat vessel, designed to accommodate both skis and bikes, uses hydrofoil technology — computer-guided underwater wings — to fly above the water’s surface at high speeds, unaffected by waves and winds. The wings lift the hull above the water, significantly reducing drag and cutting energy consumption by 80% compared to conventional vessels. This is what allows the P-12 to be fully propelled by renewable electricity instead of fossil fuels, while providing a smooth ride above the waves even at high speeds.

“It’s ironic that while millions, myself included, drive around Lake Tahoe to admire its beauty, the road sediment we generate contributes to the largest threat to the lake’s famous cobalt blue clarity. Our service will provide a faster transport than cars or buses, while keeping the lake blue,” said Ryan Meinzer, Founder & CEO of FlyTahoe, in a statement.