Advancements made by Condor Ferries wins the company the IJGlobal ESG Technology Award in the infrastructure category with one judge calling it “innovative and exciting – the future of water transport”.

One of the judges said: “Columbia Threadneedle Investments has demonstrated a strong commitment to ESG principles through its partnership with Condor Ferries and Artemis in the Condor/Artemis project.

“The project showcases technological advancements, zero emissions, energy efficiency, and monetary benefits, contributing positively to the environment and socio-economic well-being.”

Condor Ferries – acquired in early 2020 by Columbia Threadneedle (51%) and Brittany Ferries (49%) – joined the Belfast Maritime Consortium and will operate the world’s most advanced zero-emission commuter ferry service between Belfast and Bangor, Northern Ireland.

The new vessel will go through sea trails in 2024 and its revolutionary design will allow the craft to “fly above the water”, significantly reducing drag, using up to 90% less energy than conventional ferries.

According to the submission: “We see multiple reasons why the Condor/Artemis project should win: technological advancements, zero emissions and energy efficiency, monetary benefits, and quiet performance and a comfortable ride for all passengers while fulfilling a critical service and enhance the socio-economic well-being of the area.

“The technological advancements, zero emissions and energy efficiency go together. The EF 24 Passenger vessel has up to 90% lower fuel costs compared to traditional ferries.

“This is due to the Artemis eFoiler electric propulsion system which is a revolutionary design developed to help decarbonise our seas and shape the future of maritime transportation. A 100% electric vessel generating zero emissions, removing air, water and noise pollution.

“Through its revolutionary design the vessel can operate at high-speed and close-to-shore within busy waterways, reducing journey time while not harming flora and fauna.

“Fast and reliable public transportation is critical and combined with a revolutionary vessel which offers a comfortable ride, through an autonomous flight control system – no seasickness – and quiet transit, through a fully submerged electric drivetrain, it becomes a gold standard.

“Public transport being paramount, it is also pivotal to offer sustainable solutions, and by using the Condor/Artemis vessel passengers are avoiding emissions compared to conventional bus drive, car drive, and vessels.

“Last but not least – money. All the benefits mentioned above lead to the result that this new vessel is cheaper to operate… compared to a similar diesel fuelled ferry over a year, savings will amount to £2.6 million, while also preventing 8,000 tonnes of CO2e.”

The submission rounded off: “It combines a fully electric zero-emission vessel that positively contributes to the environment, it offers a pivotal service by connecting Bangor and Belfast in Northern Ireland contributing to the social well-being of the citizens as well as tourists, and with the established partnership with Condor Ferries and other participants of the Belfast Maritime Consortium it shows highest governance factors.”