The Philippines and Norway are teaming up to develop the country’s first prototype electric-hybrid propulsion ferry, highlighting both nations’ commitment to greener, more sustainable maritime transport.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Philippine Association of Coastal and Inland Water Ferries Inc. (PACIFI), IMP Shipyard and Port Services Inc., and Norwegian company ZEM.
The project builds on the EU-supported TrAM (Transport: Advanced and Modular) initiative under the Horizon 2020 program, which promotes innovation in maritime transport while advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Lyster said the partnership reflects the shared vision of both countries.
“The future of maritime transport will depend on a smart combination of alternative fuels, energy efficiency measures, and shore power systems—especially when powered by renewable energy,” Lyster said.
“Norway’s success story is impressive: with 111 ferry routes and around 180 electric ferries in operation, it is proven that electrification is not only feasible but also highly effective,” he added.
Norway has been at the forefront of maritime electrification, launching the world’s first fully electric commuter ferry, MS Ampere, in 2015, followed by the first high-speed electric ferry, MS Medstraum, in 2022.
The MoU comes after the Department of Transportation launched its first fully electric passenger ferry, M/B Dalaray, last October 6. The ferry serves the 26-kilometer Pasig River route, connecting 13 stops across five cities in Metro Manila, including Pasig, Makati, Mandaluyong, Manila, and Taguig,
The partnership was officially announced during the First Philippines–Norway Electric Ferries Conference, organized by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Innovation Norway, Philippines–Norway Business Council (PNBC), and Maritime CleanTech.
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