TECHNO-ECONOMIC STUDY OF ELECTRIC CATAMARAN FERRYING PASSENGERS CROSSING KUALA TERENGGANU RIVER

Catamaran floats on two demihulls, that are slimmer, shallower than single hull of an equivalent capacity, has less weight, small draught, more deck area for passengers and more stable.

Due to these features catamaran may be powered by electric energy makes it more economical. Electric motors as the prime mover maintains high efficiency over a wide range of loads and speeds, has small weight, very low maintenance and repair cost compared to diesel engines or outboard motors. Battery is used as energy storage that enables the catamaran operates as ferry for transportation at rivers which is more efficiently due to its low operational cost; pollution free hence environmental friendly. The obstacle of this transportation system is that the distance to be traveled is limited and depends on the capacity of the battery. Recharging the battery should be done through an electric charger with high charging capacity per hour connected to the electricity line exist at the jetty.

The monthly operational cost of catamaran boat is more less compare to the monohull diesel boat. Such type of ferry is effective for connecting two closed places on rivers or as a means of inland waterways transportation for tourism along rivers, canals or small lakes with limited sailing time. In this case the route is taken for Kuala Terengganu River at Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.