The first ever zero-emission, electric short-run ferry is set to sail in 2024. It will shuttle passengers between Tiburon and Angel Island.
A joint partnership between PG&E and the Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry Company, news of the launch is a milestone for PG&E’s Electric Vehicle Fleet Program.
The program intends to help organizations convert their fleet operations to electric vehicles, with the goal of eliminating tailpipe emissions, saving money and simplifying maintenance.
PG&E plans to increase electricity transmission to the ferry terminal in order to support the charging infrastructure necessary to power the 59-foot, 400-passenger vessel.
“We are very excited that the Angel Island will be the first of the short-run ferries in California to be 100% zero-emission,” said Capt. Maggie McDonogh, fourth-generation owner and operator of the Angel Island Ferry in a statement. “Our company continues supporting the natural environment of the Bay and our beautiful state park.”
McDonogh noted that the all-electric vehicle would not be possible without the increased electricity service PG&E is providing—while an electric semi-truck needs 2kWh to go one mile, the Angel Island ferry requires 30kWh to go the same distance.
“The Angel Island Ferry is an important part of California history and Bay Area tourism, carrying hundreds of thousands of visitors to Angel Island State Park for nearly a half-century,” said Lydia Krefta, PG&E’s director for clean energy transportation.
“We are excited to support and collaborate on its conversion to an electric propulsion vessel,” Krefta said.