Antipodean hydroelectric power generation firm Meridian Energy is partnering with Swedish company Candela to bring the P-12 to New Zealand. P-12 has a record range of 60 nautical miles on one charge, which will allow operators to cut costs by an estimated 50% due to lower energy use and upkeep costs.
Built in Stockholm, the ferry was launched last year with the Region of Stockholm becoming the first operator, moving commuters between the suburb of Ekerö and central Stockholm.
Meridian Energy’s deal with Candela will make it the first non-European customer to take delivery of the electric shuttle ferry.
The electric hydrofoil ferry will provide daily transport for the staff and contractors servicing the country’s largest hydro power station, Manapōuri Power Station.
Meridian Energy general manager generation Tania Palmer said it is one way the company is reducing its emissions from internal transport, contributing to Meridian’s goal of halving its emissions by 2030. The company hopes to save about 240 tonnes of carbon emissions each year – equivalent to taking 52 petrol cars off the road.
“We have to be bold and innovative to reduce emissions. This deal is the result of a global search to identify the latest and best technology for our needs, and one that’s suitable for such an incredible natural environment.” The P-12 will replace a diesel ferry currently used on the same route.
Flying on computer-guided hydrofoils, the P-12’s hull rises above the water at high speed, which reduces energy consumption by a staggering 80% when compared with traditional vessels, and allows for long range and high-speed travel using battery power only.
Candela claims their design boasts the highest top speed and longest range of any electric ferry cruising at 25 knots and leaving a wake behind the vessel less than 15 cm high, which will minimise disruption to the shoreline of Lake Manapōuri.
A computer system helps prevents motion-sickness-inducing pitching and slamming found in other ships by stabilising the vessel in real time. The flight controller uses sensors to measure the wave height in front of the vessel, and then adjusts the hydrofoils’ angle of attack 100 times per second to provide a smooth ride over them.
“We’re excited to partner with a global leader in the transition to sustainable energy and global decarbonisation and thrilled to soon see our P-12 in action on Lake Manapōuri,” said Candela chief executive Gustav Hasselskog. “We thank Meridian for leading the charge towards a cleaner, greener future.”
The Candela P-12 is expected to begin operating on Lake Manapouri in 2025.
