Alabama’s Gee’s Bend Ferry has started operations once again, as it has now been converted from diesel propulsion to the first zero-emission, electric-powered passenger/car ferry in the US. The 15-vehicle and 132-passenger ferry operates on the Alabama River between Camden and Boykin, Alabama.
After being converted at the Master Marine shipyard in Bayou la Batre, Alabama, Gee’s Bend ferry has now returned to service being US’s first zero-emission, electric-powered passenger/car ferry. The boat will operate with less emissions, lower noise and reduced operating costs.
The conversion received a $1.09 million grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency, as well as $765,350 from ALDOT.
Glosten provided concept through contract design and shipyard technical support for the project, while Marine Interface equipped the new electric propulsion system along with American Traction Systems, Fort Myers, Spear Power Systems, and Grandview. Cochran Marine took the responsibility of shipboard and shore side charging stations.
Commenting on this milestone, Glosten marine engineer Jeff Rider, said that the conversion shows how battery technology can be used as propulsion, also driving further adoption of this technology.
