b'FOGHORN FOCUSThe ability to move this project forward depends on a number ofBerg is looking forward to adding the new hybrid-electric ferry to the important factors and decision, not the least of which is approval withfl eet. We cant wait to see the end result, he said.the U.S. Coast Guard. Waterhouse said that the U.S. Coast Guard has been a very good partner on the project. The local Portland Coast Guard as well as the Marine Safety Center at Coast Guard Headquarters well involved, Waterhouse said, and although this technology is relatively new, all safety concerns were addressed because of a great partnership and excellent communication.Waterhouse also praised Casco Bay Lines leadership for its innovative fi nancing and funding options that the operation has been able to tap into to make the project a reality. Casco Bay Lines was awarded nearly $4 million in 2020 for the propulsion system, including $3.2 million in competitive grant funding to procure the technology through the FTAs Passenger Ferry Grant program, and $750,000 through the Maritime Administration (MARAD) Maritime Environmental and Technical Assistance (META) Program to go towards various components of the project. Casco Bay Lines will work with MARAD to assess efficiency data and do additional testing and reporting on the hybrid engine and battery charging systems for use by others in the maritime industry. NEXT STEPSNow that the design and engineering are completed, the next step is to identify a shipbuilder to build the hybrid ferry. The contract for vessel construction will be awarded to a shipyard following a competitive A new hybrid-electric ferry will replace the Machigonne II, pictured here. bidding process. It is Casco Bay Lines hope to have the new vessel inSource: Casco Bay Linesoperation by the end of 2022 or the fi rst half of 2023. LET ASSUREDPARTNERS MCM MANAGEYOUR INSURANCE SO YOU CANFOCUS ON YOUR VOYAGEAssuredPartners MCM is a leading independentinsurance brokerage based in the Pacic Northwest. Ourcombined experience placing insurance and managingthe marine industrys unique risks.Whether were working with vessel operators, builders,AssuredPartners MCMContact: Damon L. NasmanDirectLine:206.262.6375Damon.Nasman@assuredpartners.comwww.assuredpartnersmcm.comFOGHORN FOCUS 10 FOGHORN'