Collaboration explores green energy storage and supply with electric boats

A new project called Electric Thames is exploring the use of electric boats to store and supply renewable energy to London’s electricity network, supporting the city’s transition to net-zero carbon emissions.

The collaboration between UK Power Networks, LCP Delta, and Marine Zero aims to increase energy flexibility and reduce peak electricity demand while supporting the decarbonisation of the Thames River and potentially serving as a model for other rivers in the UK.

Using a principle similar to night storage heaters, battery-powered vessels on the Thames could store green energy when it is cheap to do so, such as when the wind is blowing or sun is shining, and feed it back to the grid during peak electricity hours. The project is in its early phase of gathering information and understanding the needs of boat operators and quay owners along the river. Funded via the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund, this phase will conclude at the end of May 2024.

Currently, most boats and ports on the Thames rely on fossil fuels, but there is a growing shift towards electric power sources. However, the impact of this transition on the power network and peak electricity demands in the city is not well understood. The Electric Thames project will consult with stakeholders to understand the opportunities for investing in electrification and sustainable revenue sources in the marine sector.

The outcomes of the project could also provide valuable insights for decarbonisation and electrification of other rivers and waterways in the UK, shaping a planning framework for a sustainable future. 

Andy Hurley, director at Marine Zero, says:

“Electric Thames isn’t just about achieving zero emissions on our capital’s river – it is even more exciting and significant than that. Along with our project partners at LCP Delta and UK Power Networks, we are developing a completely new approach to increasing energy flexibility by developing new income streams new and flexible solutions for vessel and quay operators. We are delighted that Marine Zero has been selected to support the discovery phase of the project using our maritime experience and intelligence, and we look forward to engaging with operators along the Thames over the coming weeks.”

Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks, adds:

“This is a first-of-its-kind project in the UK, and one that is operating at the forefront of energy innovation. Tapping into this potential will not only help us create a cleaner Thames for everyone but will also give us an additional supply of flexible, green energy which will help our transition to a decarbonised energy system.  We’re thrilled to be leading the way in this space and are also looking forward to seeing how this approach could be scaled to other rivers across the country.”