INCAT Tasmania is investigating the possibility of replacing an LNG powerplant on a vessel under construction with a battery-electric system.

The company said this project could deliver the “world’s first large, lightweight, zero-emissions ferry”.

Amongst vessels under construction at the shipyard is a 130-metre lightweight ferry, originally intended to be powered by LNG, that will carry 2100 passengers and 226 vehicles for Buquebús, which operates ferry services between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Montevideo, Uruguay.

Following close consultation with the customer, Incat was recently asked to investigate the possibility of replacing the LNG powerplant with a battery-electric system in the vessel, which is due to be delivered in 2025.

Incat Group chairman and founder Robert Clifford said, “the customer wants this to happen, Incat wants this to happen, and whilst there are matters to be finalised, I am extremely confident that Incat can deliver this ground-breaking ship. In my experience unless we see something come in from left field, this is a done deal”.

Mr Clifford said the batteries and electric motors are being worked through with Incat’s suppliers to ensure they can deliver the technology in the necessary timeframe.

“Obviously, there needs to be sufficient energy supply in the ports that the ship would visit but we understand that this is progressing positively,” he said.

“Zero emissions shipping is the future and Incat based in Tasmania, one of the few places on the planet which has already delivered net zero, is now poised to revolutionise the world’s shipping fleet by delivering the world’s first zero emissions, lightweight ship.”

Incat managing director Craig Clifford said there are always challenges with changing any aspects of a ship design part way through the build.

“[But}, in simple terms, this is just swapping one method of propulsion for another,” he said.

“It will, however, have significant environmental benefits, and open up a whole new market for these types of vessels.”

Incat strategic adviser Peter Gutwein said delivering the world’s first large battery electric ferry for Buquebús would lead to exponential growth in the international market for large lightweight electric ships.

“The world wants large, lightweight zero emission ships and we are already scaling up our workforce and production facility in readiness for what will be a significant expansion,” he said.

“It will be a win-win for both the environment and for investment in long-term skilled jobs in Tasmania.”