Americas News
Canadian Ferry Terminal To Get Shore Power
A Canadian ferry company is installing shore power at its Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal in British Columbia with the help of government funding, the Canadian government says.
Seaspan Ferries Corporation, a commercial roll on-roll off ferry service between British Columbia's Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, is using up to CAD89,650 ($87,126) in federal funds from the Shore Power Technology for Ports Program to help pay for the CAD179,300 ($174,244) project.
Transport Canada said shore power is a "highly effective way to reduce marine diesel air emissions."
"This initiative will help protect the environment and improve our air quality around the Saanich Peninsula, and it will reduce operating costs for the ferries," said the Honourable James Moore, Minister Responsible for British Columbia.
The shore power system is expected to reduce fuel consumption at the terminal by about 70,000 litres per year, saving about CAD45,000 ($44,726), and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by about 120,000 kilograms.
"Seaspan Ferries is pleased to participate in the Shore Power Technology for Ports Program at our Swartz Bay Terminal," said Vice President Steve Roth.
"Vessels will reduce fuel consumption while in port, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution.
Swiss-based engineering firm Cavotec said in December 2012 that shore power systems were a reminder that there is a growing trend, especially in the U.S. and Europe, towards tighter legislation regulating emissions at ports.
