Meridian Energy buys electric hydro-foiling ferry for employees' daily commute

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Meridian Energy’s electric hydro-foiling ferry, the Swedish-designed Candela P-12, will go into service next year.
Photo: Supplied

Meridian Energy has chosen an electric hydro-foiling ferry to help cut emissions for its employees’ daily commute.

The Swedish-designed Candela P-12 is due to replace the diesel ferry – which services the Manapōuri hydro station – next year.

The vessel uses computer-guided hydrofoils to raise its hull above the water, significantly reducing friction and drag, and allowing for battery-only, long range and high-speed travel.

It is expected to save 240 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.

Meridian Energy generation general manager Tania Palmer said it would be the first customer outside of Europe to get the electric hydro foil ferry, which would contribute to their goals of halving emissions by 2030.

“The Candela P-12 is an exciting replacement for the diesel ferry we currently use to transport people across the lake to the power station,” she said.

“It’ll drastically reduce emissions and, at the same time, give our team what’s arguably the best and most spectacular commute in the world.”