Commercial, Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions  -  November 27, 2024

Hong Kong Adds Two Hybrid Ferries

Hong Kong & Kowloon Ferry Limited (HKKF) received two new hybrid ferries that will reduce emissions.

The two new ferries, one of which is a carbon-hulled vessel and the other an aluminum-hulled vessel, are part of a nine-vessel order and will form part of a trial by the Hong Kong government as it seeks to lower emissions from the local shipping sector. Each of the vessels boasts a hybrid drive train and lithium-ion energy storage systems, allowing them to operate in zero-emissions mode during slow speed transit, berthing and maneuvering.

In a further bid to reduce the environmental footprint of the new vessels, each ferry is fitted with exhaust treatment technology and approximately 30 square meters of solar panels supported by battery technology to provide zero-emissions onboard power.

The 40-meter ferries can transport up to 450 passengers and will service the busy commuter routes between Hong Kong and the islands of Lamma Island, Peng Chau and Hei Ling Chau.

The ferries were designed by global digital shipbuilder Incat Crowther and built by Hong Kong-based Cheoy Lee Shipyards. Incat Crowther and Cheoy Lee Shipyards will deliver HKKF nine new vessels as part of this project — seven 40-meter and two 35-meter vessels. Two of the 40-meter vessels are hybrid, and their successful delivery comes after the delivery of two conventional diesel-powered 40-meter vessels. The final five vessels in the fleet are under construction and expected to be delivered by 2025.

“This project continues our 20-year relationship with Hong Kong & Kowloon Ferry, and we are proud to be playing a role in helping to modernise and transition their fleet toward lower-emission solutions,” said Sam Mackay, technical manager at Incat Crowther, in a statement. “Together, we’ve brought a future-focused ferry platform to life, helping to meet Hong Kong’s growing demand for more sustainable maritime transport options. As operators like HKKF look to reduce their environmental footprint, projects like this showcase the potential of hybrid technologies to contribute to the sustainable expansion of fleets around the world.”