STQ will add three new electric ferries to modernize its fleet and reduce GHG

The Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ) and the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable have announced plans to purchase three rechargeable electric ferries for the Isle-aux-Coudres and the Sorel-Tracy crossings.

An investment of $191.5 million, the electric vessels will significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions at both crossings. At the Sorel-Tracy crossing alone, 4,450 tonnes of CO2 will be avoided yearly, which is the equivalent of taking 1,000 gasoline-powered cars off the road.

The new ferries will replace those already in operation at the two crossings. The existing vessels will serve as backups at other STQ crossings.

Calls for tenders for the professional services required to prepare the opportunity file and business case will soon be issued by the STQ.