New York City has officially unveiled the Harbor Charger, the first hybrid-electric ferry for public use in the entire state. This vessel marks a turning point in the transition to a more efficient cleaner, more efficient cleaner, more efficient and aligned with urban climate goals.
Its launch, led by the Trust for Governors Island, coincides with the 20th anniversary of the island’s opening to the public and reinforces its role as a center for climate innovation.
Ferry Harbor Charger: A high-impact technology investment
Built at Conrad Shipyard in Louisiana and designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, the Harbor Charger represents a $33 million investment. It is equipped with advanced technology from Siemens Energyincluding the BlueDrive Eco BlueDrive Ecopropulsion system, BlueVault batteries and the EcoMAIN control platform. This combination enables three modes of operation, including a totally emission-free mode.
The vessel can carry up to 1,200 passengers and 30 vehicles, reaching speeds of 10 to 12 knots. Compared to the diesel ferry that it replaces, the Lt. Samuel S. Coursen the Harbor Charger is 66% faster. The hybrid system will reduce approximately 600 tons of CO₂ annually, and when the fast charging infrastructure becomes operational, that figure will increase to 1,400 tons less per year.
Towards zero emissions
The ground-based fast-charging facility, currently in the design phase, was partially funded by a $7.5 million federal grant. Once operational, it will allow the Harbor Charger to run entirely on electric power, aligning its operations with the Trust’s net-zero emissions goals.
The ferry improves access to Governors Island and strengthens its role as a hub for climate education and research. Institutions such as The New York Climate Exchange and Stony Brook University are already collaborating with the Trust to make the island a model sustainable city of the future.
The new ferry features 360° thrusters, a handicapped-accessible lounge and tiered restrooms. These amenities make the Harbor Charger a more inclusive and efficient option for the growing number of visitors to the island each year.
Public and private collaboration
The initiative is the result of a close collaboration that has combined technical expertise, strategic financing and innovative solutions to reduce emissions, improve access to public transportation and encourage the adoption of clean technology in New York Harbor among municipal, federal and private entities.
From Siemens Energy to the U.S. Federal Transit Administration, multiple stakeholders have contributed to bringing this new standard of public maritime transportation to fruition.
Trust for Governors Island, the organization responsible for the project, has reaffirmed its commitment to urban sustainability and equity in access to public spaces. The Harbor Charger is a concrete example of its commitment to a resilient infrastructure aligned with the challenges of climate change.
Source and photo: Trust for Governors Island
