Innovation Summer 2025

COASTAL CLASS PROPULSION UPGRADE BC Ferries’ M.V. Coastal Renaissance recently underwent a major propulsion upgrade. This project involved the fitting of two 11-MW variable frequency drives (VFDs), allowing variable propeller speed instead of a constant 140-RPM rate. Combined with an optimized controllable pitch propeller, this system configuration reduces cavitation and underwater radiated noise (URN), benefiting marine life such as the endangered southern resident orcas. The upgrade also reduces fuel consumption and GHG emissions, supporting BC Ferries’ sustainability goals. Reliability is improved by reducing the stress on the propulsion motors during start-up, extending equipment life. The vessel can maintain propulsion with the loss of a generator, increasing resilience in narrow waterways such as Active Pass. This modernization aligns with BC Ferries’ commitment to quieter, more efficient ferry operations and is part of a broader Coastal Class vessel upgrade initiative. Company: BC Ferry Services Inc. (BC Ferries) Participants: Tymen Wevers, P.Eng. BC Ferries Engineering Department. Wärtsilä SAM Electronics. Schottel Canada Inc. Point Hope Maritime (PHM). 3GA Marine Ltd. P hoto : S ubmitted by BC F erries

Innovation Summer 2025

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