Aqua superPower Unveils New DC Charger Innovation

Greetings, Net Zero News Community,

We have some exciting news from the world of sustainable maritime innovation that promises to reshape the future of boating! Aqua superPower has unveiled one of the pioneering battery-backed DC chargers specifically designed for marine environments, and it has found its home at the picturesque Fowey Harbour.

This groundbreaking development is part of the ambitious Electric Seaway (TES) project, which aims to make fast DC charging accessible for electric boats, even in regions where traditional grid connections may be sparse or unreliable. With this new initiative, Aqua superPower is taking significant strides towards transforming our waterways into greener, more sustainable spaces.

The charger operates using a sophisticated 60kW battery system that integrates seamlessly with Fowey Harbour’s single-phase power supply. This unique setup enables the charger to efficiently trickle-charge from the local grid, ensuring that stored energy is available to power the Aqua PKM150 charger. This cutting-edge technology can deliver an impressive 50kVA of direct DC charge to vessels, allowing electric boats to recharge in under an hour. This level of efficiency makes it compatible not only with electric leisure boats but also with work vessels and ferries, broadening its impact across the maritime sector.

The TES project is funded through the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3), a strategic initiative launched by the Department for Transport in collaboration with Innovate UK. This partnership underscores the commitment to fostering innovation that supports the decarbonisation of our maritime operations. The Electric Seaway project is focused on establishing a comprehensive network of electric charging points across the UK’s waterways, and the deployment at Fowey Harbour serves as a replicable model for similar remote sites. This effort is vital in accelerating the transition to cleaner boating solutions.

Now, operators, boat owners, and enthusiastic visitors can experience the benefits of this cutting-edge charger firsthand at Fowey Harbour. It is a significant leap forward in enhancing the accessibility of electric charging for maritime vessels, and it marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable marine transport.

Reflecting on this transformative achievement, Karen Gill, COO of Aqua superPower, stated, “This is a transformative moment for marine electrification. Our battery-backed DC technology overcomes remote infrastructure barriers, delivering fast charging where it’s needed most. Fowey Harbour is now a beacon for the global shift to clean boating.” Her sentiments capture the essence of this innovation and its potential to inspire others in the field.

Moreover, Paul Thomas, CEO and Harbourmaster at Fowey Harbour, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, noting, “This is a game-changer for Fowey Harbour and Cornwall’s waterways. Aqua superPower’s innovative battery-backed DC charger delivers on our TES commitment, enabling rapid electric boat charging despite our limited grid. We’re proud to lead the way in sustainable maritime transport and protect our pristine coastal environment.” His comments highlight the significance of this initiative not only for local waterway operators but also for the broader movement towards a more sustainable future.

The introduction of this battery-backed DC charger at Fowey Harbour represents a remarkable step towards a more sustainable maritime industry. By overcoming the limitations of traditional charging infrastructures, Aqua superPower is paving the way for a new era of electrification in the boating world. This innovation is not just about convenience; it plays a crucial role in the larger narrative of decarbonising our waterways and protecting our environment.

As we look ahead, the success of the Electric Seaway project at Fowey Harbour could inspire similar initiatives across the UK and beyond. By showcasing the potential of battery-backed charging solutions, Aqua superPower is demonstrating how technology can lead us towards a cleaner, greener future for maritime transport.

Join us in celebrating this exciting development and stay tuned for more updates on the journey towards net zero emissions in our waterways. Together, we can embrace the future of sustainable boating and ensure that our oceans and rivers remain pristine for generations to come.

Let’s continue to champion the cause of net zero and support innovations that drive us towards a sustainable future!