The UK’s first shoreside charging network for e-boats has opened in Plymouth, with the group of DC electric charging docks located in the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. 

They include the world’s first 150kW charging docks at Mount Batten, the UK’s first 75kW station at the Queen Anne’s Battery marina and 25kW chargers at the Barbican landing stage. It is suitable for use by electric boats and vessels of all sizes. 

The project has been inspired by the Marine e-Charging Living Lab (MeLL) initiative, which is led by a consortium featuring students from the University of Plymouth, the Plymouth City Council, Princess Yachts Limited and Aqua superPower. It is a direct response to the Government’s 2050 Maritime plan and its 100% clean electricity goal for 2035. 

Alongside providing increased infrastructure for those using e-boats, the consortium hopes the idea will convince sailors that the switch over from petrol and diesel to electric can be cost-efficient. 

Aqua’s next step is to expand its UK network, with suitable secondary sites identified in Devon and Cornwall. Ultimately, the short-term goal will be to have charging facilities every 10 miles along England’s south coast, with long-term European expansions also discussed for locations like Venice and Portofino.