Backing clean, green Maria Island link

A new eco-friendly passenger ferry will help give visitors to Maria Island a cleaner, greener ride over.

Ferry operator, Encounter Maria Island, which is part of the Navigators Group, has been supported by the Tasmanian Government with $650,000 funding. 
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said the project aligns perfectly with the Tasmanian Future Clean Fuels Strategy.

“This project pioneers green methanol fuel use and advances Tasmania’s reputation for clean fuel maritime technology,” Minister Duigan said.

“Tasmania is charting a clean fuels future. This ferry has far lower emissions than diesel, which is why we’re supporting innovators like Encounter Maria Island to lead the way.

“This is a great example of how business and Government can work together to deliver for Tasmania.

“Green methanol is an emerging solution for reducing global marine emissions. This project puts Tasmania on the map as one of the first regions in Australia to deploy it at scale.”

Navigator’s decision to pursue best-practice technology confirms the Tasmanian Government has the right policy, regulatory measures and support initiatives to encourage the industry to make better decisions.

The green methanol is planned be sourced from the Bell Bay Powerfuels Project or the HIF Global E-fuels plant in Burnie.

Comments attributable to Navigators CEO, John Roche:

“We have spent years researching and examining options for future fuels for a ferry of this type and size, and battery electric, or hydrogen fuel cell electric propulsion systems didn’t stack up for a variety of operational, technological, regulatory and cost reasons," Mr Roche said.

“First stage will be implementing a best practice, lowest emissions possible solution while green methanol engines and fuel becomes available.  Once available, the vessel will be ready for the transition to future fuels.

“A vessel has a life of over 30 years, and we know that in this period diesel will not be the fuel of choice.”

The ferry is expected to be operational by late-2026 to meet increased visitation demand for the Maria Island summer period.