Lifecycle emissions and cost analysis of ferry electrification
21 Aug 2025
Conference Room 14 (Theatre One)
Day Two
Morning
Ferry and Passenger Vessel electrification
Morning
Ferry and Passenger Vessel electrification
This work performed a novel cradle-to-grave lifecycle analysis (LCA) of ferry electrification, including the fuel and vessel lifecycle emissions and cost. A battery-electric ferry was conceptualized for comparison against a current diesel-powered ferry in the Washington State Ferries system. Results indicated that ferry electrification reduced lifecycle emissions of greenhouse gases (81%), particulate matter (81%) and nitrogen oxides (95%) but increased sulfur oxides emissions (56%) and lifecycle cost (14%). Major ferry electrification hurdles were onshore charging infrastructure, battery life, cost and environmental impacts. With sufficient economic incentives, ferry electrification could help reduce inland marine emissions.