PortsToronto presents Canada’s first truly zero-emission ferry

The Marilyn Bell I transporting passengers, vehicles and supplies between the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and the city’s Bathurst Street, is now the first electric ferry service in Canada.

PortsToronto celebrated Marilyn Bell I’s return on December 15 following its conversion to 100% electric power. The ferry’s new zero-emission lithium-ion power and propulsion system contain no diesel components.

In operation since 2010, and upgraded to bio-diesel fuel in 2018, the vessel’s diesel generators and engines were removed in 2021 to make way for the new electric power and propulsion system and a suite of lithium-ion batteries fueled by 100% Bullfrog Power renewable electricity.

Powered entirely by electricity from clean wind and solar sources, the retrofitted Marilyn Bell I has eliminated greenhouse gas emissions from the ferry operation, reducing direct emissions by approximately 530 tonnes per year. The retrofitted vessel will operate far more quietly, dramatically reducing related noise in the surrounding community and marine life.

Image from the Toronto Times website