Posted on November 15, 2023
The world’s first electric dredge has been unveiled by HaiSea Marine, a collaboration between the Haisla Nation and Seaspan in North Vancouver. This groundbreaking vessel has the potential to revolutionize the maritime industry with its zero-emissions platform. During the negotiations for the LNG Canada export terminal, the leadership of the Haisla Nation emphasized the need to minimize environmental impact. Thus, the idea of developing a dredge that operates without contributing to air pollution was born. Seaspan, in partnership with naval architecture firm Robert Allan Ltd, accepted the challenge to design and build the innovative HaiSea Wamis.
The HaiSea Wamis, named after the first ancestor in the Kitimat creation story, was unveiled to the public during a ceremony held in July. This electric vessel made its entrance under the iconic Lions Gate Bridge, marking a significant moment in maritime history. Until the LNG Canada terminal is ready for tankers, the HaiSea Wamis will support ship docking operations at the Port of Vancouver.
One notable feature of the HaiSea Wamis is the absence of traditional chimneys found in conventional dredges, eliminating diesel exhaust emissions. This design choice ensures better visibility for the crew, providing a safer working environment. The near-instantaneous torque provided by electric motors enhances maneuverability, allowing the ship to respond quickly to captains’ commands.
The HaiSea Wamis sets a new standard of comfort and convenience for crew members. The accommodations offer spacious and private rooms with bathrooms, providing a comfortable stay during their shifts.
Powered by six large Corvus battery banks of 5,300 kilowatt-hours, the HaiSea Wamis boasts an impressive energy capacity equivalent to 70 high-end Tesla electric cars running continuously. With this remarkable innovation, the dredging industry takes a significant step towards a sustainable future.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the HaiSea Wamis?
A: The HaiSea Wamis is the world’s first fully electric dredge, powered by Corvus batteries.
Q: Who developed the HaiSea Wamis?
A: The HaiSea Wamis was developed through a collaboration between the Haisla Nation and Seaspan Marine Transportation.
Q: Why is the HaiSea Wamis significant?
A: The HaiSea Wamis is significant because it operates without emitting greenhouse gases or diesel exhaust, making it a zero-emission vessel.
Q: What role will the HaiSea Wamis play?
A: The HaiSea Wamis will support ship docking operations at the Port of Vancouver until the LNG Canada terminal is ready for tankers.
Q: How does the absence of chimneys benefit the crew?
A: The lack of chimneys improves visibility for the crew, increasing safety during ship docking operations.
Q: What is the energy capacity of the HaiSea Wamis?
A: The HaiSea Wamis is powered by six large Corvus battery banks of 5,300 kilowatt-hours, equivalent to the power of 70 high-end Tesla electric cars running continuously.
