Concept Naval Inc. undertakes Toronto’s conversion to all-electric ferries

Concept Naval Inc., a Green Marine partner, is leading Toronto’s $4.5-million-dollar project to convert existing diesel-hybrid designs to full-electric power.

Approved by the city in early January, the project’s final budget, will provide the shipbuilder with additional design and construction support, as well as shore infrastructure for the new fleet.

The new ferries will over the next 15 years replace the four vessels that primarily service the Toronto Islands, with delivery of the first all-electric ferry expected near the end of 2025. The Ongiara, the William Inglis, the Sam McBride and the Thomas Rennie are between 59 and 87 years old. The 110-year-old side-wheel steamer Trillium will continue to operate as a heritage ship.

While the total cost of replacing the ferries isn’t yet known, city staff estimate completed designs will run between $23 and $25 million per vessel. The move is part of the city’s TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, with plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.

Illustration of the all-electric ferry rendering from the City of Toronto website