WETA, the agency that provides San Francisco Bay Ferry service, has announced a major project to reduce air pollution emissions on its four Gemini-class passenger ferries.
In September 2021, the WETA Board of Directors approved a $5.5 million project to upgrade the engines on the agency’s four Gemini-class vessels to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first engine replacement is scheduled to begin in the coming days and the full project is expected to be completed in early 2023.
When complete, emissions from the upgraded ferries will be significantly reduced. Nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions will decrease 73 percent and particular matter (PM) emissions will decrease 80 percent.
Funding for the Gemini class project came from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) Carl Moyer grant program and proceeds from Alameda County’s transportation sales tax.
The project will be completed by JT Marine, Inc., based in Vancouver, Wash.