Local
Sydney Harbour Ferries to Get Electric Upgrade
A new initiative will see the city's iconic ferries retrofitted with electric engines, aiming to cut emissions while preserving maritime charm.
8 May 2025 at 2:27 PM | By BridgeView Bulletin Editorial Team
In a move hailed as a landmark for urban sustainability, Transport for NSW has announced a major initiative to convert Sydney’s iconic harbour ferries to electric power. The plan, which targets both new vessel procurement and retrofitting of existing ferries, aims to drastically cut emissions across one of the city's busiest waterways.
The transition to electric propulsion will begin with the Circular Quay fleet, where older diesel-powered ferries have long contributed to air and noise pollution along the route to Manly and other destinations. Under the plan, two vessels will be retrofitted with electric engines by mid-2026, with a goal of full fleet conversion by 2030.
Minister for Transport Jo Haylen stated that the program was part of a broader climate initiative to reduce transport emissions by 50% over the next decade. 'This is not just a technology upgrade,' she said. 'It’s about improving the quality of life for Sydneysiders while leading the nation in maritime innovation.'
The announcement follows months of engineering assessments and cost analysis conducted in collaboration with European maritime consultants. Officials report that, while the initial investment will exceed $120 million, long-term operational savings and environmental benefits justify the scale of the project.
The new electric ferries will be powered via a combination of shore-based charging stations and solar-assisted auxiliary systems. Engineers are also exploring regenerative braking technology that could capture energy during docking maneuvers to enhance efficiency.
Sydney commuters have reacted positively to the news, with many expressing relief that noise and exhaust pollution may soon be reduced. 'Every morning I take the ferry to Circular Quay and the fumes are overwhelming,' said Annette Lai, a Mosman resident. 'This change is long overdue.'
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the timeline and reliability of retrofitted vessels, pointing to past delays in ferry procurement and maintenance backlogs. Some transport analysts warn that without parallel upgrades to wharf infrastructure, the transition could face logistical bottlenecks.
To address these challenges, Transport for NSW has partnered with Australian naval engineering firms to develop standardized modular engine compartments that can be installed with minimal downtime. The department has also secured state and federal funding for dock-side charging station construction at key terminals.
Environmental groups have championed the decision, highlighting that marine transit emissions are often overlooked in climate strategies. The Electric Vehicle Council of Australia has described the project as a 'significant turning point' for public transport sustainability nationwide.
The electric ferry initiative is part of a larger $1.2 billion public transport modernization strategy that includes light rail extensions, hydrogen-powered buses, and smart ticketing integration across systems. Together, these upgrades aim to make Sydney’s transit both greener and more interconnected.
As preparations continue, community forums and stakeholder briefings are scheduled to ensure that the public remains informed and engaged. The first retrofitted ferry is expected to enter testing in late 2025, with live passenger trials to follow shortly thereafter.