Meridian e-hydrofoil ferry for Lake Manapouri

Meridian Energy is set to bring the world’s first electric hydro-foiling ferry to Lake Manapouri.

The Swedish-designed Candela P-12 will provide daily transport for staff and contractors servicing the country’s largest hydro power station, saving an estimated 217.7 tonnes (240 tons) of carbon emissions annually or the equivalent to taking 52 petrol cars off the road.

Meridian generation general manager Tania Palmer says it is just one way the company is reducing its emissions from internal transport, contributing to Meridian’s goal of halving its emissions by 2030.

“This deal is the result of a global search to identify the latest and best technology for our needs, and one that’s suitable for such an incredible natural environment,” she says.

“The Candela P-12 is an exciting replacement for the diesel ferry we currently use to transport people across the lake to the power station.”

Meridian has signed a deal with Swedish company Candela to provide the P-12 and says it will be the first customer outside Europe to take delivery of the electric shuttle.

Computer-guided hydrofoils enable the P-12’s hull to rise above the water at high speed, reducing friction and drag by around 80% when compared to traditional vessels, and allowing for long range and high-speed travel using battery power only.

At a 25-knot cruise speed the wake behind the vessel is less than 15cm high, which will minimise disruption to Lake Manapouri’s shoreline, says Meridian.

Candela chief executive Gustav Hasselskog says he’s thrilled to see its P-12 in action on Lake Manapouri soon – expected to start there in 2025.