Hong Kong Government Set to Test E-Ferries from Early 2024: Reports

Hong Kong is closer to embracing a greener future, with plans to initiate trials for electric ferries in 2024, according to proposals set out by Financial Secretary Paul Chan in the 2023-2024 budget.

As part of the government's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050, four in-harbour ferry operators have received HK$350 million in subsidies to develop electric ferries and the necessary charging infrastructure for these trials. The ferries will be open for public use in early 2024.

This move is a significant step towards reducing emissions and making Hong Kong's transportation sector more sustainable. The trial routes, announced in July 2021, include Central-Tsim Sha Tsui by Star Ferry, North Point-Hung Hom by Sun Ferry Services, Sai Wan Ho-Kwun Tong by Coral Sea Ferry Service, and Fortune Ferry's Water Taxi connecting Kai Tak, Hung Hom, Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, and West Kowloon.

In addition to electric ferries, the Hong Kong government actively promotes the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) on the city's streets. By 2027, they aim to introduce 700 electric buses and 3,000 electric taxis to bolster the green transport initiative.

A significant step in this direction is the allocation of HK$200 million from the New Energy Transport Fund to commence trials of hydrogen fuel cell electric double-deck buses and heavy vehicles. These trials will begin in collaboration with franchised bus companies and other stakeholders, and are scheduled to kick off later this year.