Exploring a Zero-Emission Ferry Service Across the Bristol Channel
Key Ideas
- Ocean Prime Industries plans a 55m long zero-emission ferry service linking Swansea and the south-west of England, aiming for speeds up to 40 knots.
- The company has received positive feedback from the public consultation with around 98% of respondents supporting the idea of the ferry service.
- The concept includes consideration for year-round operation, vehicle ramps, and shore power supply at destinations, with a focus on providing efficient transportation and boosting tourism.
- Exploration of a hydrogen-powered ferry is part of the initiative, aligning with the company's commitment to eco-friendly solutions and the potential use of renewable energy sources.
Ocean Prime Industries Ltd is conducting a feasibility study for a potential ferry service connecting Swansea to the south-west of England. The company envisions a 55m long zero-emission ferry with an electric powertrain that can accommodate passengers, cars, and some cargo at speeds of up to 40 knots. Swansea is the primary destination under consideration at this stage, although other locations along the Bristol Channel and Celtic Sea are not ruled out. Feedback from a public consultation has been overwhelmingly positive, with 98% of respondents in support of the ferry service. The company aims to submit a final report to Swansea Council in January to assess the economic viability and benefits of the service. The project also explores the use of hydrogen as a power source for the ferry, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions. Challenges such as stormy weather conditions and high tidal ranges in the Bristol Channel are considered in the design of the ferry. The initiative aligns with the broader focus on eco-friendly transportation and renewable energy sources in the region, reflecting a positive outlook towards innovative marine engineering and transportation solutions.