Introducing the project crew – FinFerries

FinFerries, also known as Suomen Lauttaliikenne Oy, is a state-owned operator of ferry services in Finland. The company operates over 50 routes across the country, serving both sea and lake travel needs. FinFerries transports over 5 million vehicles and 10 million passengers annually. The head office is located in Turku, with a branch office in Savonlinna

An internal project team has been established, comprising six individuals responsible for technical design and project supervision, a project manager/coordinator for REISFER, a communication lead, and a steering group member for REISFER.

The company possesses significant expertise in minimizing the environmental impact of ferry traffic. This includes initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of water traffic in alignment with Finland’s environmental goals. Achieving this objective is challenging and requires the latest in environmentally friendly technology. The company employs new technology in both new vessels and the modernization of older ones. The shore-powered, battery-driven Elektra, Altera, and L-317 road ferries have significantly contributed to reducing the carbon footprint since Elektra entered service in 2017.

The primary focus of the project is the road ferry Stella, which operates on our longest route between Korppoo and Houtskari in Turku archipelago. Stella is already equipped with diesel-electric propulsion, and our goal is to install a “peak shaving” technology (an additional battery pack) to significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

FinFerries aims to be a pioneer in emission-free water transport. We strive to be a leader that not only follows the best environmental practices in the industry but also sets new standards in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. This goal guides all our actions and decisions, ensuring that we invest in innovative solutions and technologies that enable completely emission-free water transport. We want to inspire and lead a change that improves the well-being of both the environment and society.

Being involved in the REISFER project fully supports FinFerries’ goals towards emission-free transportation. It is also exciting and educational to be part of an EU-funded project for the first time in the company’s history.