Summary - Zero Emission Ferries

Ferries are expected to play a key role in accelerating the transition to zero emission transportation. Realizing this, funding of USD2.5 billion is being extended through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace old vessels, expand fleets, build new terminals and docks, improve service in rural areas, and support the transition to low and zero emission technologies. In addition, several states, cities, agencies and operators have initiated zero emission ferry projects and extended substantial funding to improve and expand ferry service in communities that rely on waterways and enable ferry operators to reduce their carbon footprint. The successful deployment of electric, hydrogen and low emission ferries and related infrastructure will require strong collaboration amongst different stakeholders including governments, technology providers and financiers.

To discuss recent developments, case studies and opportunities, Global Mass Transit is organizing the conference on “Zero Emission Ferries - East”, on March 12, 2024 at The Westin Arlington, Virginia.

The mission of this conference is to discuss the federal government’s plan to transition to a zero emission transit system, deployment of zero emission ferries in the US, funding available, strategies, case studies, best practices, recent developments, key challenges, plans and future outlook. It will also provide information on procuring, financing, operating, and maintaining zero emission ferries and infrastructure. The conference will also highlight opportunities and technological innovations.

The conference will bring together officials from federal government, state DOTs, local governments, transit agencies, ferry operators, transit operators/ transit passenger ferry service providers, clean air agencies, regional air pollution control agencies, vessel design and construction companies, naval architecture firms, technology vendors, equipment integrators, electric charging solution suppliers and battery manufacturers, energy providers, hydrogen-fueling infrastructure providers, fuel cell manufacturers, infrastructure OEMs, terminal infrastructure developers, marine engineering firms, academic institutions, research and development organizations, transport associations, consulting firms, environmental services organizations, leasing companies, funding and financing agencies and utilities.

The one-day conference will have 6 sessions, panel discussions and case studies, with a wide array of international experts providing valuable insights and actionable advice.

Role of zero emission ferries in achieving net zero
Federal funding for zero emission ferries
Key policy initiatives for transitioning to low/zero emission ferries
Best practices in accessing federal grants
Transitioning to zero emission ferries: strategies and best practices
Partnership between stakeholders in industry, finance and government
Experience so far and case studies
Plans of cities in the US for the deployment of zero emission ferries
Opportunities available for suppliers of zero emission ferry technologies
Project conceptualisation, financing and planning, and procurement
Choosing between different low/zero-emission options: hydrogen, electric, BioGas, etc.
Hydrogen fuel cell ferries: case studies and future plans
Battery electric ferries: case studies and future plans
Terminal and related infrastructure development
Terminal electrification
Deployment of charging infrastructure
Operations and maintenance of zero emission ferries
Partnerships with utilities, impact on the grid
Commercialization of zero emission marine technologies
Key risks and challenges
Ensuring state of good repair
Improving equity, accessibility and inclusivity