In an exciting development for Hong Kong's transportation sector, the first electric ferry is arriving this week, setting the stage for a greener future! The Hong Kong government has committed a substantial HK$350 million towards a pilot program designed to introduce electric ferries, fully funding the construction of four innovative vessels through various ferry operators. Among them, the pioneering electric ferry from Sun Ferry is set to arrive imminently and will soon undergo rigorous final testing and crew training in local waters.

The inaugural electric ferry is poised to start operations between North Point and Hung Hom by the year’s end, marking a significant milestone. As part of the transition to cleaner energy, charging facilities have been installed at major terminals, including North Point, Hung Hom, and Kwun Tong, ensuring the smooth rollout of this new service.

Dr. Vanessa Au, the Assistant Director of the Environmental Protection Department, explained that the electric ferry will require about eight hours of overnight charging to operate throughout the day. While the ferry’s weight is increased by the batteries, modern materials like carbon fiber and aluminum are being utilized, alongside solar panels placed on the deck, to help optimize energy consumption and improve efficiency.

This state-of-the-art ferry is designed to carry approximately 400 passengers and boasts amenities such as restrooms and spaces dedicated to luggage and bicycles, making it comparable to traditional fuel-powered ferries in terms of passenger comfort. Maintenance costs are also expected to be lower than those associated with conventional ferries, which could lead to significant savings in the long run.

The introduction of electric ferries is anticipated to substantially enhance air quality around Victoria Harbour, an area burdened by pollution from fuel-powered vessels. This initiative is part of the government’s broader push towards achieving carbon neutrality. With two additional electric ferries under construction and a third one, operated by Star Ferry, in the procurement stages, the future for eco-friendly maritime transport looks promising.

Cheng Sing-kei, Deputy General Manager of Sun Ferry, highlighted that while the initial operational costs for electric ferries might be elevated, the overarching social benefits—particularly improved air quality and enhanced passenger experience—cannot be overlooked. He expressed optimism for the electric ferry initiative and emphasized the necessity for continued government support in expanding essential infrastructure, including more charging stations.

Stay tuned as Hong Kong embarks on this transformative journey toward eco-friendly public transport and cleaner seas!