Lifecycle emissions and cost analysis of ferry electrification
21 Aug 2025
Theater One
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All Day
Vessel Electrification
All Day
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.