The Schrinner council has unveiled plans to potentially introduce electric-powered ferries on the Brisbane River, aiming for a clean cross-river service by 2027 pending their retention of power in the upcoming election.
The proposed electric or hybrid vessel is intended to serve the popular Bulimba to Teneriffe route, which saw over 170,000 trips in 2023.
The envisioned "clean, green-powered ferry" for Brisbane would be equipped with solar panels on its roof and have a capacity to accommodate approximately 80 passengers.
The council has disclosed its intention to initiate the tender process for the construction of the vessel in the next financial year, with aspirations to commence the service during the 2026-2027 financial year.
The tender specifications will seek a provider capable of delivering a vessel that can operate on battery power or hybrid mode, feature a catamaran-style design, require a crew of two, and have seating and standing room for around 80 passengers.
In June 2023, Brisbane City Council allocated $435,000 from its budget over 12 months to evaluate the feasibility of new battery-powered ferries. During this time, it proposed the introduction of a 15-meter catamaran, larger than a KittyKat but smaller than a CityCat, to be named EVCat.
Furthermore, in August 2023, the boatbuilder responsible for delivering Brisbane's initial CityCats announced a partnership with Auckland-based company EV Maritime, aiming to introduce eco-friendly vessels to Brisbane and gradually phase out the diesel fleet before the 2032 Olympics.
If the plan of the Schrinner council comes to fruition, Brisbane could potentially join the ranks of cities like Auckland, Singapore, and Stockholm in transitioning from fossil fuel-powered ferries to electric alternatives.