San Francisco Bay Ferry has been awarded a $12.5 million grant from the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) to implement zero-emission, battery-electric ferry service at the Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal in Alameda. This funding is part of the agency’s Rapid Electric Emission-Free Ferry (REEF) Program, which aims to transition its fleet to zero-emission propulsion technology.
The grant, provided through CalSTA’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), will support the procurement and installation of an electrified universal charging float with battery storage, electric vessel charging infrastructure, and terminal modernization at Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal. “SF Bay Ferry is committed to providing the region with the nation’s first zero-emission fleet of fast ferries, and this latest investment from the Newsom Administration is a significant step forward,” stated Jim Wunderman, Chair of SF Bay Ferry’s Board of Directors.
The project builds upon $5 million previously awarded by the California Energy Commission and an additional $4 million in local matching funds. It aims to enhance electric propulsion ferry service on the Harbor Bay route, allowing for rapid charging of fully electric ferries while docked. Additionally, it will increase electric vehicle charging capacity for ferry riders and improve operational safety at the terminal.