New Wightlink ferry announced
With the international climate change summit, COP26, just around the corner, we’re pledging to further reduce our carbon emissions significantly over the next decade.We’re drawing up specifications for our next new ferry on the Portsmouth – Fishbourne route. With advances in sustainable technology, we’re looking to commission a new ship that will use electric power from batteries to an even greater extent than at present by Victoria of Wight, already the greenest ferry to serve the Isle of Wight.
Although there are still obstacles to overcome, we hope that shore power can be used to charge batteries, meaning full electric operation can become a reality.
Next steps
It takes five years to draw up plans, go out for tenders and build a new ferry to serve the Isle of Wight.We are already working with our naval architects and technology companies to come up with the best solution to operate ferries with the lowest possible impact on the environment.
Our ultimate aim is to operate England’s first all-electric ferry.
Climate leaders
Since 2007, we have reduced our carbon footprint by 33%. Overall, the company has cut carbon emissions by 17% over the four years prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.During COP26, Wightlink will feature in a UK Government video series about Climate Leaders. Senior Master Captain Sam Mitchell talks about how climate change is changing the world around us and how sustainable technologies, such as hybrid energy, can make a difference. See the video below.
Kilde: Wightlink