Prism completed feasibility studies for BC Ferries and Seaspan to investigate the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of electrifying several vessels within their fleet of ferries. The project was coordinated and funded by BC Hydro.
Specifically, the Prism team provided review, research and analysis related to:
- existing service capacities at each terminal and associated limitations;
- hybrid ships power consumption profile and associated opportunities;
- shore power upgrade requirements;
- shore ship connection opportunities; and
- business case of various options.
There were five terminals included in the studies. The existing electrical infrastructure at each terminal was evaluated to determine the available capacity as well as the necessary upgrades to achieve the charging levels required. The details of the infrastructure upgrades and cost estimates for each upgrade scenario were determined, including associated BC Hydro substation upgrade costs where applicable. Several distribution configurations were reviewed to determine which would be most cost-effective. Grid connected battery energy storage systems were also investigated for potential solutions. Energy storage provides options for load shedding and peak demand reduction to alleviate costly infrastructure upgrades and increased electrical demand charges.