Prospective shipbuilders interested in converting Washington State Ferries’ three Jumbo Mark II vessels into hybrid electric vessels in the coming years have until June 1 to submit bids.
The contract represents a significant step in lowering the agency’s reliance on diesel fuel and greenhouse gas emissions for fleet operations.
“Converting the three largest vessels in the WSF fleet means that we are tackling the biggest emissions culprits, with 26% of greenhouse gases coming from these three vessels alone,” according to WSF.
This move, according to the agency, is expected to decrease emissions by more than 20% from these three vessels and by almost 95% in 2026 when terminals are electrified.
The contract calls for the first vessel Wenatchee to be converted, then the Tacoma and the Puyallup. The upgraded Wenatchee is expected to be back in operation by next summer, while the improved Tacoma and the Puyallup is anticipated to follow in the subsequent two years, WSF said.
More information is available at https://www.wsdot.com/Ferries/Business/contracts/search/find?contractNum=00-9955
