The challenge
Maritime emissions in local passenger transport
This project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australia-Singapore Low Emissions Technologies (ASLET) Initiative for Maritime and Port Operations. ASLET is co-delivered by CSIRO with MPA Singapore.
Maritime transport is one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonise, but not all vessels face the same barriers. Passenger ferries operating on short, regular routes present an early opportunity to reduce emissions from transport on water.
Most passenger ferries currently rely on diesel engines. These vessels generate greenhouse gases along with air pollutants, noise and vibration in busy harbours, rivers and coastal areas where people live, work and travel.
While small passenger vessels represent a modest share of total maritime emissions, reducing emissions in these settings matters. These routes are highly visible, operate close to communities, and offer a realistic starting point for wider adoption of low‑emission maritime technologies.
Our response
Building electric ferries for Australian waterways
To address this challenge, the project is designing and developing a fully electric passenger ferry that will accommodate 80 passengers and will be suitable for operation in urban and regional waterways.
The ferry integrates an advanced electric propulsion system and can be charged using renewable electricity. When powered this way, the vessel can operate with almost no direct greenhouse gas emissions, while also significantly reducing noise and vibration compared with conventional diesel ferries.
A core focus of the project is the integration of these technologies into a complete, operational vessel — demonstrating how electric propulsion can be successfully applied to real‑world passenger services.
Importantly, the ferry is being designed, developed and manufactured in Australia, supporting local industry and building domestic capability in clean maritime transport.
The results
Market adoption of electric ferries
By delivering a fully operational electric passenger ferry, the project is expected to support broader adoption of low‑emission vessels by ferry operators, vessel owners and local governments.
Operating the ferry in real-world conditions will help demonstrate that electric vessels can meet the performance, safety and reliability requirements of regular passenger services.
These demonstrations are critical for building confidence in electric ferries as a viable alternative to diesel, while also highlighting their environmental and operational benefits.
With the ferry designed and built in Australia, the project also supports opportunities for local manufacturers to scale production and supply electric vessels to domestic and international markets.
“By building an electric ferry in Australia, we’re showing how local manufacturing and clean energy innovation can support the transition to lower emission maritime transport,” said Tommy Ericson, project lead and director of Aus Ships Group.
The project aligns with the objectives of the Australia–Singapore Low Emissions Technologies (ASLET) Initiative by accelerating the shift to low‑emission maritime operations across the region.
Want to learn more?
Contact the project team: tommy@ausships.com
Partners
