Corvus Energy has been chosen by ABB’s Marine & Ports division to supply battery energy storage systems for two new hybrid‑electric ferries being built for Washington State Ferries (WSF).
The agreement also includes an option for a third vessel, marking a major step forward in the United States’ shift towards cleaner maritime transport.
WSF operates the country’s largest ferry network, running 21 auto‑passenger vessels across 10 routes and 19 terminals. The two new hybrid‑electric ferries will be the first of up to 16 vessels planned under WSF’s $3.98 billion Ferry System Electrification programme. This initiative is expected to become the most significant investment in maritime electrification in the US and a key milestone in reducing emissions from marine transport.
Each new ferry will carry around 1,500 passengers and 160 vehicles, supporting WSF’s long‑term strategy to modernise its fleet and cut its environmental impact.
The vessels will feature a battery energy storage system alongside diesel generators, enabling fully electric operation whenever adequate shore‑charging capacity is available. Running solely on battery power produces zero emissions and eliminates fuel use, helping WSF achieve substantial reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas output in line with state‑wide environmental goals.
Bruce Strupp, Vice President Marine Systems at ABB’s Marine & Ports division, highlights the importance of the project: “Washington State Ferries forge a very progressive path towards environmentally sustainable operations with these electric hybrid ferries… The proven reliability, safety and performance of the Corvus ESS was important in awarding this contract to Corvus Energy.”
ABB has selected the Corvus Dolphin NxtGen ESS, a lightweight, high‑power system designed specifically for marine applications. Fredrik Witte, CEO of Corvus Energy, notes the significance of the partnership, calling Washington State’s plan “a noteworthy milestone for US marine electrification.”
The ferries will be built by Eastern Shipbuilding Group in Florida, with the first two vessels expected to enter service in 2030 and 2031.
Image Credit: Washington State Ferries
