The ocean sector is navigating through a pivotal moment, driven by an urgent demand for decarbonization. While long-haul shipping remains the heavyweight champion of emissions, smaller commercial and coastal vessels are increasingly under the spotlight. This includes cruise ships, passenger ferries, platform supply vessels (PSVs), offshore service vessels (OSVs), and research ships. Passenger ferries, in particular, are facing intense scrutiny from various regulatory bodies at municipal, state, and federal levels, as their environmental impact becomes harder to ignore.
Siemens Energy, a trailblazer in electrification and propulsion technologies, is stepping up to the plate to help ferry operators tackle these pressing challenges. The company is not just a provider but a systems integrator, weaving together innovative technologies to redefine how passenger ferries operate. During a recent conversation with Ed Schwarz, the head of the New Marine Unit Sales for the U.S. and Canada at Siemens Energy, he emphasized the company’s holistic approach to vessel electrification. “We collaborate with ship owners and naval architects to help design full electric, hybrid, or diesel-electric systems for their specific requirements,” Schwarz stated, showcasing Siemens Energy’s commitment to tailored solutions.
One standout project is the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) ferry initiative, where Siemens Energy played a critical role in developing a hybrid design. By integrating advanced energy storage and recharging capabilities, they’ve helped TxDOT meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and minimizing environmental impacts. “The ferry recharges at night and stores energy during operation, so it has a lower carbon footprint,” Schwarz explained. This forward-thinking design is a beacon for what the future of passenger ferries can look like.
Siemens Energy’s BlueDrive PlusC system exemplifies their technical prowess. This DC power and propulsion system not only enhances fuel efficiency but also significantly cuts emissions. It operates seamlessly with Siemens Energy’s BlueVault battery storage, which employs lithium-ion technology to provide reliable energy storage. “Green ferry infrastructure is the lifeblood of a lot of these things,” Schwarz said, underlining the importance of sustainable practices in modern maritime operations.
Hybrid systems are emerging as the most pragmatic route to decarbonization for many operators. “We’re seeing hybrid electric boats with storage because they’re an efficient, cost-effective route to decarbonization,” Schwarz noted. These systems can reduce emissions by up to 95% during specific operational phases like docking and idling, making them a compelling option for operators looking to balance performance and sustainability.
Automation and energy management are also key players in this narrative. Siemens Energy’s power management solutions optimize energy delivery and ensure that generators only kick in when necessary. “The automation system responds on its own to the vessel’s energy demands, and then the captain can worry about navigating and staying safe while the system takes care of the work in the background,” Schwarz elaborated. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also allows for a safer navigation experience.
As the maritime industry grapples with the need for zero emissions, hybrid systems are proving to be a more accessible solution for many operators. Siemens Energy’s strategy is clear: “There is no single ‘one size fits all’ approach to decarbonizing ferries,” Schwarz insists. The company aims to customize solutions that fit each operator’s unique needs, whether that means hybrid systems, all-electric vessels, or alternative fuels.
The environmental benefits of electrified ferries extend beyond just lowering global greenhouse gas emissions. Local air quality can also see significant improvements, particularly in port cities plagued by nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter. Schwarz highlights the potential for large-scale electrification projects to positively impact urban air quality.
As pressure mounts on passenger ferries to decarbonize, the shipbuilding landscape is poised for a significant transformation. Siemens Energy’s comprehensive electrification strategy is paving the way for a more sustainable maritime industry. By focusing on systems integration—from power generation and energy storage to propulsion and automation—Siemens Energy is not just keeping up with regulatory changes but is actively shaping the future of maritime transportation. The TxDOT project serves as a testament to this vision, demonstrating that with the right approach, the maritime sector can indeed chart a course toward a greener future.