Zinus to provide charging solutions for BC Ferries’ hybrid-electric ships

Norwegian equipment provider Zinus has received a contract to provide charging solutions for BC Ferries’ new diesel-electric ferries.

As disclosed, the contract, signed with Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards, involves the delivery of ZPP800 tower solution cable management system [CMS] for the quayside, along with the SWC200 swing connect system as the onboard units.

The system will be installed on the four new Island-class ferries that Damen is building for BC Ferries, Canada’s largest ferry operator. These vessels will serve the routes between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, and Campbell River and Quadra Island, to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of these key connections.

According to the company, the Zinus systems will provide efficient and reliable charging for the ferries when operating on electric power.

The delivery schedule for the Zinus system is planned to begin in the second half of 2025 and is expected to be completed within the first half of 2026.

“This contract represents a pivotal achievement for Zinus as we continue to expand our presence in North America,” stated Ronny Olson, Sales Director Charging of Zinus.

“We look forward to working with both Zinus and Damen Shipyards to take delivery of these new systems, and to implement this recharge-from-ashore technology into our operations,” said Ed Hooper, Executive Director, Shipbuilding.

“We expect that this equipment will help to advance our objectives to deliver cleaner, more environmentally sustainable operations on Canada’s west coast.”

The inclusion of the Zinus systems in these new vessels will support BC Ferries’ commitment to sustainable and efficient operations, reflecting the growing emphasis on advanced technologies within the maritime sector. 

To remind, BC Ferries recently marked the start of construction process for four new Island-class ferries. The steel-cutting ceremony which took place at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania in July this year is said to mark “a critical step forward” in the company’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its fleet, enhancing service, and promoting environmental sustainability.