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Aqua superPower, in collaboration with an impressive consortium of partners, has marked a significant milestone in the realm of sustainable maritime transportation with the successful demonstration of The Electric Seaway (TES) project. This innovative initiative, which aims to establish essential marine charging infrastructure along the picturesque south coast of the UK, was officially launched in June 2023 with a commendable funding boost of £3.2 million from the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme.

The Electric Seaway represents a pivotal step in the evolution of electric maritime transport, having established eight new charging sites that create a robust network to support the burgeoning fleet of electric vessels in the region. These strategically located charging points include MDL Ocean Village, Isle of Wight Trinity Landing, which features two chargers, and Fowey, equipped with two chargers, one of which benefits from an innovative ZPN battery backup. The expansion of Aqua’s network has also introduced additional fast-charging marine sites in Lymington, Chichester Itchenor, and Falmouth.

At the helm of this transformative project is Aqua superPower, working hand in hand with ZPN Energy and a diverse array of partners, including the University of Plymouth, South Hams District Council, Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch Council, and the UK Harbour Masters’ Association. Together, they have deployed cutting-edge battery-backed ultra-rapid charging technology specifically designed for shoreside applications, effectively addressing the grid limitations often encountered in coastal regions. This ensures that electric boating areas, which previously struggled with limited grid capacity, can now enjoy reliable and efficient charging solutions.

Moreover, environmental sensors installed at all charging sites by the University of Plymouth are providing invaluable data that confirms the positive environmental impact of this transition towards cleaner marine travel. The culmination of The Electric Seaway builds upon the legacy of the Marine eCharging Living Lab (MeLL) project, further expanding the UK’s first marine charging network into a scalable model with global potential, all while fostering economic growth along the way.

With partners like ZPN Energy refining processes for efficient site delivery, the project ensures a scalable and practical deployment of charging stations along the UK’s southern coastline. The University of Plymouth has continued to lead the charge in ongoing environmental data collection, employing advanced sensors to monitor ecological impacts that will inform future decarbonisation strategies. Additionally, Aqua superPower has introduced a new compatibility service, enhancing interoperability between various charging systems and electric vessels.

The insights gained from The Electric Seaway are poised to significantly influence upcoming projects, advancing the transition to cleaner maritime solutions while reinforcing the consortium’s leadership in sustainable innovation. Karen Gill, the Chief Operating Officer of Aqua superPower, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Electric Seaway has been a resounding success, delivering on our vision to create a reliable and accessible charging network for electric vessels. This initiative showcases the power of collaboration and innovation in driving the decarbonisation of the maritime sector.”

She further highlighted the potential of the south coast, stating, “We’re thrilled to see the south coast emerge as a hub for sustainable marine travel, offering both commercial operators and leisure users the confidence to embrace electric propulsion. The Electric Seaway is just one of many projects that will demonstrate and showcase this technology across the UK in 2025, involving a variety of vessel types and new infrastructure in ports and harbours.”

James Foster, the Chief Executive Officer of ZPN Energy, also shared his thoughts on the project, noting, “Our battery-backed charging technology has proven its value in overcoming infrastructure challenges, ensuring rapid charging even in areas with limited grid capacity. The project has provided valuable learning regarding third-party chargers, allowing for access to a retrofit model. Completing The Electric Seaway is a significant milestone for us and a testament to how public investment in innovation can deliver real-world impact.”

Dr Simon Ussher, Associate Professor of Marine and Analytical Chemistry at the University of Plymouth, remarked on the collaborative effort involved in the project: “The Electric Seaway has demonstrated how research, industry, and local stakeholders can work together to tackle the complex challenges of maritime decarbonisation. The data and insights we’ve gathered will inform future efforts, ensuring that the transition to zero-emission fleets accelerates in line with our 2050 goals.”

Capt Martin Willis AFNI, Executive Officer and Secretary of the UK Harbour Masters’ Association, commented on the broader implications of the project: “This initiative aligns perfectly with our strategy to support sustainable maritime practices and alternative fuels. The Electric Seaway has laid the groundwork for a cleaner, greener future for UK ports, and we’re proud to have played a role in its success.”

As we look towards the future, The Electric Seaway serves as a beacon of hope and innovation in the ongoing quest for sustainable maritime solutions. By fostering collaboration and investment in cutting-edge technology, the project paves the way for a new era of electric boating that not only meets the demands of today’s environmental challenges but also inspires future generations to embrace cleaner, greener practices. The journey towards a sustainable maritime future is well underway, and it is initiatives like The Electric Seaway that will lead the charge.

In conclusion, the successful launch and operation of The Electric Seaway highlights the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders in the maritime sector. It showcases the potential of innovative technologies to overcome existing limitations and create a more sustainable future. As we continue to push towards our goal of achieving net-zero emissions, projects like this will play a crucial role in transforming the maritime landscape, ensuring that we can enjoy the beauty of our coastlines while protecting the environment for generations to come.

So, dear readers, as we celebrate this remarkable achievement, let us remain committed to supporting and advocating for sustainable initiatives like The Electric Seaway. Together, we can navigate towards a cleaner, greener future!