The Government of Canada has pledged $1.19 million in funding to the University of Victoria’s new green ship technology.
The funding will help secure the power-train equipment necessary to retrofit the former Tsekoa II into the world’s first plug-in hybrid ship powered by electricity, hydrogen fuel cells and low-emission diesel fuel.
The hybrid system will provide energy for low-speed manoeuvring and station-keeping, as well as supply high-quality power for ship systems, communications and instrumentation.
The technology was created by UVic’s green transportation research team and B.C.’s marine engineering and alternative power system sectors.
Project partners include the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the B.C. government, Ballard Fuel Systems and Techsol Marine.
By demonstrating this green ship technology, UVic hopes to open the door for a wide range of research and commercial applications in the marine sector. A hybrid system is quieter, more efficient and cleaner than traditional marine systems.
UVic vice-president of research Howard Brunt said “This support for our world-class coastal research vessel is greatly appreciated and helps maintain Canada’s leadership in the design and application of clean energy technologies.”
Jennifer Harrison