San Francisco's Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) is charting a course towards a greener maritime future through its Rapid Electric Emissions-Free Ferries (REEF) program. In collaboration with the esteemed Finnish maritime technology group, Wärtsilä, the initiative is poised to usher in a new era of sustainability for the Bay Area's ferry system.
Initiated in early 2021, WETA's comprehensive study laid the groundwork for a visionary plan to replace San Francisco Bay's ferry fleet with cutting-edge, zero-emissions vessels. Culminating in the 'Blueprint for Zero Emission Vessel Transition' in early 2023, the study identified the imperative for electric propulsion systems and charging infrastructure to power the upcoming fleet.
In a strategic partnership with Wärtsilä, WETA revealed its phased plan to construct five new ferries, marking a transformative moment in the REEF project. Wärtsilä, a renowned expert in fleet electrification and systems integration, will bring its extensive knowledge to propel the project forward.
As the conceptual phase of the REEF project nears completion, WETA is poised to embark on the vessel construction phase. Envisioned within this ambitious undertaking are three 150-passenger ferries and two larger vessels with a capacity of 300 or more passengers. Notably, the project also encompasses the creation of floating battery charging units, emphasizing a holistic approach to sustainable maritime technology.
Wärtsilä, in a statement, confirmed that the construction of the first electric-powered vessel is scheduled to commence before the close of 2023, with commercial operations slated for launch in 2025. WETA's Executive Director, Seamus Murphy, expressed pride in operating the nation's cleanest high-speed ferry fleet and conveyed optimism about the imminent zero-emissions future, with Wärtsilä's expertise playing a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of ferry decarbonization.
The strategic partnership between WETA and Wärtsilä is part of a broader collaboration, with Wärtsilä committing to undertake multiple projects under the overarching agreement. WETA, via its LinkedIn platform, hinted at additional collaborations with "more news on this front soon."
Looking ahead, WETA's long-range development plan envisions new terminals in strategic locations, including Treasure Island, Mission Bay, Berkeley, Redwood City, South Bay areas of San Francisco, and the Carquinez Strait. The ambitious goal is to transition 50% of the municipal vessel fleet to zero emissions by 2035, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of a sustainable and eco-friendly maritime landscape for San Francisco.