NYC to study the feasibility of fueling ferries with biofuel

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has signed legislation that requires a two-year feasibility study to be conducted regarding the use of renewable fuels and technologies to power the city’s ferries. Renewable diesel, biodiesel, hybrid electric, battery electric and fuel-cell electric power trains are among the fuels and technologies to be included in the study.

The legislation, Int. No. 54-A, was first introduced on early 2014. The city council approved the legislation in December 2017, while de Blasio signed it on Jan. 8.

The text of the legislation indicates the study is to include a review of the types and classes of ferries used and planned to be used, and their compatibility with the alternative fuels and alternative fuel technologies studied. The study is also expected to address the availability of such fuels and technologies, the mixing and storage of such fuels and technologies, and other relevant issues, including barriers, opportunities and regulatory requirements related to the use of such fuels and technologies in city ferries. A report discussing the results of the study is scheduled to be published by Dec. 31, 2019.

Additional information is available on the New York City Council website.