Washington State Ferries (WSF) is undertaking an ambitious initiative to electrify their system with plug-in hybrid-electric vessels and terminal enhancements to achieve reduced environmental impact and energy costs. As the largest ferry system in the U.S. – carrying nearly 25 million people each year on 10 routes – WSF is leading the way in the marine industry by outlining and acting on a plan that will allow substantial emissions reductions.
  As the largest single consumer of diesel fuel in the State Government, implementation of system electrification is vital for Washington State to lead by example to address climate change. The benefits of system electrification extend beyond the government, ferry system, and ferry riders by improving air quality in the Puget Sound region and contributing to the significant greenhouse gas reductions required globally to support a sustainable future. This presentation will address the overall system electrification program with a focus on the challenges and opportunities presented by this ambitious project. We will discuss the current state of electrification in the maritime industry, the engineering of new hybrid electric vessels as well as retrofitting of existing vessels, the engineering of the supporting charging infrastructure at the terminal facilities, and the partnerships needed with utilities and others to make this project successful. Additionally, the panel will address the necessary planning, financing, and executive support that continue to be key elements in the implementation of this long-term strategy.

Track 5: Decarbonizing the Largest Ferry Fleet in the United States: Washington State Ferries Journey towards Zero Emissions

To lean into ASCE’s sustainability efforts to mitigate environmental effects and use resources wisely, ASCE’s International Conferences on Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI) 2021 will be held as a virtual event. The dates of ICSI 2021 will be December 6-10th.

Powered by the ICSI Steering Committee based in Houston, the 2021 event will bring together leaders to discuss leveraging sustainable infrastructure for resilient communities.  The program will offer content from across the globe, but have several highlights on sustainability initiatives in Houston, Texas. We hope you will join us virtually for plenary sessions, technical discussions, along with opportunities for Q&A and networking, connecting with virtual exhibitors, and to earn professional development hours.  

[Paper Proceedings](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784483879)

Conference DOI: https://doi.org/10.26226/m.63208d58cb3e8e001271fcc3