BI ferry terminal 1st to be electrified

The Bainbridge Island terminal will be the first of eight to be electrified for Washington State Ferries upcoming hybrid-electric system.

WSF signed an agreement with Puget Sound Energy. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, a PSE news release says.

“With this partnership for the Bainbridge Island terminal and beyond, we’re on our way to achieving the 2040 long-range goal of reducing emissions by ninety percent,” said Matt von Ruden, an administrator at WSF.

Meanwhile, PSE is offering a new “Up and Go” program to bring electric vehicle charging to multifamily properties and fleets. It’s part of PSE’s Transportation Electrification Plan that establishes a roadmap over the next five years to accelerate electrified transportation as part of its pledge to be a Beyond Net Zero Carbon company by 2045.

For multifamily units, up to four EV charging ports can be installed at low or no cost, along with maintenance up to $10,000 per port. Public and private fleets also can receive charging ports.

Also, electric system upgrades along Northeast Hidden Cove Road on BI are underway. Upgrades include a new section of underground cable, replacing aging utility poles and replacing electric with tree wire, which reduces power outages related to falling tree branches by up to 95%. Crews plan to work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the project, through November.

Finally, PSE also is offering a Peak Energy Rewards program to BI residents. If you heat with electricity you can receive $75 annually and get up to five times higher rebates on energy-efficient water heaters, heat pumps, windows and more.

The PSE news release adds that heat pumps come with cooling, so homes will be ready for summer heat. The Rewards program will pay for much of the conversion. Also available is a smart thermostat, with a $350 rebate to help with costs. For more call 1-833-203-1947.